This comes after the National Grid said blackouts could be considered as a last resort if energy supplies run low.
Three pubs in Wisborough Green, Sussex, – the Cricketers Arms, the Three Crowns and the Bat and Ball – have joined forces to offer residents free tea and coffee, courtesy of the parish council.
Fires will be roaring at the pubs and no purchase is necessary for residents wishing to take up the warm welcome.
Furthermore, the Red Lion in Northmoor, Oxfordshire, is offering a space where people can go to keep warm from 3pm to 5pm Wednesday to Friday.
Tea and chats
A pub spokesperson said: “Help yourself to free tea, coffee, and biscuits. Come in a chat or simply to enjoy some peace and quiet and keep warm. Plenty of books, newspapers, and board games available plus free Wi-Fi.
“Tables to book if you’d like to work from the pub instead of home.”
The Ostrich Inn, South Creake, Norfolk is another pub providing warm spaces for guests, as is Young’s pub the Swan, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey.
The Y Meirion pub in Blaenau Ffestiniog is also keeping its heating on and doors open for free. Owner John Ferguson wrote on Facebook: “Worried about heating bills? We will have the heating on in the pub on cold days, you are more than welcome to come sit in the pub when space is available, you don't have to buy anything."
Fires burning
He added: “I can't believe I'm having to even write this post but with the way things are I believe it's necessary. If you are suffering, please pop in and get warm, Mondays and Tuesdays are usually the quietest so plenty of free seats. It costs me the same whether the pub is full or empty so makes no difference to me. This is our fifth year doing this so don't be shy.”
What’s more, the London Inn, Okehampton, Devon is offering free hot drinks and spaces by a warm fire every day of the week during opening hours. Okehampton residents and business have donated tea, coffee, milk and logs for the fire to allow the scheme to continue.
In Northumberland, the Olde Ship at Seahouses, the Anglers Arms at Longframlington and the Percy Arms in Chatton have pledged hot drinks, warmth and company seven days a week.
The Inn Hospitality Group sites all have open fires which will be kept alight from 9am until closing time.
