THE GUV'NOR

Many licensees still need to get to address the problem of dirty loos, which taint the image of Britain's locals, says the host of the White Lion at Pailton, Warwickshire

Bernard Brindley

In support of the Morning Advertiser's campaign for the great British pub (Lay off my Local), I must say that over the last few months I have come across some that are real gems.

I have been doing some judging on in-house awards for two of the country's leading pubcos and on my travels I have come across some really well-run pubs that have well-trained staff, good beer and excellent food - whether they be a bistro pub or a pub offering good wholesome food at affordable prices.

The licensees who run these operations have been rewarded not only by the recognition of the pubcos but also with a higher level of trade and therefore more profitability. Unfortunately, I am beyond expecting all pubs to adhere to these high standards but it only takes a few minutes to monitor your staff - a friendly welcome and a pleasant goodbye and thank you will make all the difference to your customers.

However, in finding some good pubs I have also come across a great many that fall well below the basic cleanliness and hygiene standards that we should all adhere to. So many of these pubs were let down, mainly by their toilets.

I would have thought by now that most people know you are judged not only on your food and beer but also by the standards of your loos. So come on everyone have a real good look at your toilets again and ask yourselves would you accept this for you or your family?

Just to touch on two other topical subjects this week, it was pleasing to hear Prince Philip supporting the younger generation at the 50th anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh awards and not simply accusing them all of being binge-drinkers. How good it would be for more high-profile people to come out with positive statements about the young.

The second issue is Northern Ireland announcing that it will adopt a total no-smoking ban by 2007. I fear that all representation we have made and are still making is going to fall on deaf ears and that our Government will follow the stance taken by the Scottish parliament and Irish government.