Punch Taverns to the rescue after licensee allegedly flees with punters' money
Punters at the Hare and Hounds in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, voiced concerns when publican Lee Mills left the pub without notice on 15 April. They were due to go to Plymouth Argyle on Saturday 20 April to watch the last away game of the season.
It has been reported that the licensee had collected £16,500 from the fans, according to the BBC.
Punch has now arranged two coaches to take over seventy fans who had booked the trip to Plymouth and back. The pub company will also be providing food and refreshments at the Hare and Hounds pub prior to departure.
Rotherham United Football Club has contributed £500 towards the cost of travel.
Punch Taverns’ regional operations director Richard Woodward said: “We were alerted to the landlord’s departure and we were concerned that local fans would be let down. We were anxious to step in to help the loyal customers and ensure the pubs popularity with local fans.
“After speaking to Rotherham United, we are delighted to fund the trip so fans are able to attend the penultimate match of the season and we hope that they have a great day out.”
Meanwhile, Rotherham United’s head of commercial Mark Hitchens added: “We were shocked and upset to hear that so many of our supporters had been inconvenienced in such a way. These loyal fans have given the club everything this year, and we feel it’s imperative that they get to the game on Saturday.
“We are in a good position in the league table, and this should be a day to celebrate; as a result, we are delighted to work alongside Punch Taverns and provide this alternative transport.”
Punch Taverns said it is “working closely” with the police in their investigations.
A police spokesperson said: “South Yorkshire Police have been made aware of allegations of fraud in relation to a booking for a number of Rotherham United supporters to fly to Plymouth on Saturday, 20 April, for the last away game of the season.
“If anyone has been affected by this alleged incident or has any information, they are urged to contact police direct on 101 quoting incident number 863 of 15 April 2013.”
