Pub operators need to forge better links with local authorities to help save struggling village communities.
That was the message from the Prince of Wales this week as he gave his latest push to the Pub is the Hub campaign - an initiative which encourages pubs to offer vital services from post offices to internet facilities.
Speaking to a group of publicans and trade representatives at his Gloucestershire home, Prince Charles referred to a recent Countryside Agency survey which shows that 74 per cent of rural villages don't have a post office, 72 per cent are without a shop and 53 per cent without a pub.
"This is a huge problem and I believe the only way we can overcome it is by the whole community working together," he said.
"It is essential that more pub operators and brewers talk to local authorities to gain a better understanding of what's needed in the community."
The Pub is the Hub campaign was launched two years ago with the aim of breathing new life into declining rural communities. It has been supported by Prince Charles - a keen real ale enthusiast - from the start.
"Pubs have great potential to act as one-stop shops for essential services," he said. "Making the pub the hub helps meet the needs of the community, creates employment opportunities and gives a pub a more secure future."
The campaign is about to enter its second phase with the launch of five or six regional divisions. The new regional advisory groups, headed by a national steering committee, will be responsible for drumming up support and raising awareness about the initiative.
John Longden, who currently promotes the campaign single-handedly, said: "We need to give rural pubs a stronger voice. We are looking for people to give up a bit of their time and sit on regional advisory groups. We will also be seeking backers to help with funding."
- For information on how you can get involved contact John Longden on 020 7333 6366.
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Pub is the Hub reaches its second year (27 May 2003)
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