Chris Maclean: traditional pubs are being overlooked

This afternoon is the LVA meeting. They are usually good fun and the other licensees get along well. There is a strong sense of collective effort for everyone's benefit.

It is also dominated, as it might be in a brewing town, by licensees, like me, from that brewery. Sometimes these meetings get distracted by the gripes of these tenants. It is understandable that licensees get frustrated. It is hard enough trying to forge ahead to fulfil your vision without having to deal with utility companies, local authorities, financial responsibilities and all the other constraints. And then government, both local and national, keep moving the goal-posts.

Yesterday I had three gas cylinders from a, now defunct, company. I took them to the local tip to be told that I could not leave them in the gas cylinder waste. What was I supposed to do with them, I enquired. They didn't know. They didn't care. They got 69% recycling last year so they are proud. And indifferent.

Anyway, the mood in LVA seems a little uneasy. Licensees are saying they feel neglected and abandoned by the pub companies who, in an understandable sop to their shareholders, look mainly at the profitable outlets. Accordingly some licensees feel that their little, traditional pubs with their proud history and service are being overlooked in favour of the big, profitable gastro-pubs. And the licensees themselves no longer get the jollies and jaunts of old. No trip to the races. No Christmas party. Little recognition for the wonderful work they have done.

Pubs have great history. Great pedigree. These little pubs with their modest licensees have served us well.

It would be sad if they were treated so shamefully.