'We're having to adapt to survive' say pub owners

Phil Kiernan, owner of The Farmer's Boy Inn at Longhope, said conditions in the industry were "scary"

Pub owners in rural parts of Gloucestershire have said they are constantly having to adapt to survive.

Rising utility and food costs are having a big impact on budgets and landlords say they are also having to find extra funds for the rise in employer national insurance contributions.

"You're always two or three weeks away in this industry from going bang, that is scary," said Phil Kiernan, owner of The Farmers Boy Inn at Longhope.

A government spokesperson said it was working with the sector to cut rates "so businesses can thrive".

The Farmers Boy Inn is a 17th Century pub in the Forest of Dean

Mr Kiernan said the recent long spell of good weather had not brought the boost he had been hoping for.

"Everyone wants to go by the river, town pubs should be busy as well. But 17th Century country pubs, traditional rural pubs you have to drive to, they don't want to go out. So we struggle.

"We have to look around to see what other people are doing and make it better. Whether they come with children, who can play in a safe environment, or we offer different things on the menu, it has to be an experience", he said.

Peter Austin, owner of The Bell at Sapperton, said pubs are "having to think twice about the recruitment of youngsters"

Some pubs say the situation is changing the way they recruit.

Peter Austin, owner of The Bell at Sapperton, near Cirencester, said: "For the first time ever we are all having to think twice about the recruitment of youngsters into the trade, which is a real shame.

"We can really only take on people with experience, because we need people to be efficient.

"Students are now just as expensive as other members of staff, who have sometimes 10 or 20 years experience."

Mr Austin said The Bell at Sapperton had a busy spring thanks to the warm weather

Mr Austin added that The Bell had enjoyed a busy spring thanks to the recent fine weather which had been a big help with the pub industry facing challenging conditions.

A government spokesperson said: "Hospitality is at the heart of our communities and plays a vital role in supporting economic growth right across the UK to deliver our Plan for Change.

"That's why we're working with the sector to cut business rates and improve licensing so businesses can thrive.