Catering for a Vegan Christmas: Starters, Main Courses, and Desserts

Christmas is a time for family, friends, celebration, and, of course, indulgent feasting. 

With more people embracing plant-based lifestyles, it’s essential to ensure that vegans are catered for during the festive season. 

Whether you're a seasoned vegan yourself or simply hosting vegan guests, this guide will help you plan a delicious and inclusive Christmas menu. 

From starters to desserts, here's how to make your vegan Christmas a feast to remember.

Starters: Setting the Scene

A great Christmas meal begins with the perfect starter, and there are plenty of vegan options that are both satisfying and festive.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage Croutons A smooth, warming soup is ideal for starting the Christmas meal. Roasted butternut squash, blended with garlic, onions, and vegetable stock, creates a creamy and rich base. Add sage-infused croutons for a lovely herbaceous crunch.

Tip: Roast the squash with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of nutmeg to enhance its natural sweetness.

Vegan Pâté with Toasted Ciabatta For something a bit more indulgent, a mushroom and walnut pâté served with toasted ciabatta can impress even the most discerning guests. The earthy mushrooms, mixed with garlic, thyme, and a splash of brandy, create a deep, savoury flavour. Top with some tangy cornichons or pickled beetroot for contrast.

Christmas Bruschetta Topped with roasted cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, and fresh basil, bruschetta is a colourful and vibrant way to kick off the meal. You can also add a festive twist with pomegranate seeds or roasted red peppers for a splash of red.

Main Courses: The Showstopper

The centrepiece of your vegan Christmas meal needs to be hearty and satisfying. Here are some plant-based mains that will be a star attraction.

Vegan Wellington A Christmas favourite, a vegan Wellington is a brilliant meat-free alternative. A filling of mushrooms, chestnuts, lentils, and spinach, wrapped in golden puff pastry, creates a stunning and rich main course. Serve with a rich vegan gravy, roasted vegetables, and crispy roast potatoes.

Tip: Brush the pastry with plant-based milk for that perfect golden finish.

Nut Roast The classic nut roast has had a bit of a renaissance in recent years. Made from a mixture of nuts, seeds, vegetables, and breadcrumbs, it’s packed with flavour and texture. Add cranberries and chestnuts to give it a festive touch, and serve with lashings of gravy.

Stuffed Squash For something a bit lighter but still impressive, try stuffing an acorn or butternut squash with quinoa, cranberries, and pecans. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries and the nutty quinoa, creating a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Desserts: The Sweet Finish

No Christmas feast is complete without a decadent dessert. Luckily, there are plenty of vegan options that will delight your guests.

Vegan Christmas Pudding Traditional Christmas pudding can easily be made vegan by swapping out the eggs and butter for plant-based alternatives. Packed with dried fruits, spices, and a dash of brandy, it’s just as rich and indulgent as the original. Serve with vegan custard or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate Yule Log A vegan chocolate yule log is a great way to end the Christmas meal on a high note. A soft, moist chocolate sponge rolled around a luscious vegan buttercream, topped with dark chocolate ganache, is sure to please the chocoholics at the table.

Cranberry and Orange Tart For something a bit more refreshing, a cranberry and orange tart is a great option. The zesty orange pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the cranberries, all encased in a crisp pastry shell. Serve with a dollop of coconut cream for a lighter, fresher end to the meal.

Tips for Hosting Vegan Guests

Check Labels Carefully: Even foods that seem vegan may contain hidden animal products, like honey, beef gelatin, or dairy derivatives. Always check the ingredients list to ensure everything is plant-based.

Use Plant-Based Substitutes: Plant-based alternatives for milk, butter, cream, and even cheese are widely available. Use them to adapt traditional Christmas recipes into vegan-friendly versions.

Separate Cooking Spaces: If you’re preparing non-vegan dishes, try to keep cooking utensils and surfaces separate to avoid cross-contamination.

Get Creative with Ingredients: Seasonal vegetables, spices, and plant-based proteins offer endless opportunities to make your Christmas dinner both festive and delicious.

Conclusion

Catering for vegans at Christmas doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or tradition. By embracing plant-based ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can create a festive menu that everyone will enjoy. From hearty starters and show-stopping mains to indulgent desserts, your vegan Christmas feast will be a celebration of food, family, and compassion.

And don't forget, you need to make sure the drinks (both hot and cold) are vegan friendly, too! We're going to cover these in a subsequent blogpost. 

Happy Christmas, and enjoy your festive vegan creations!

And here is the link to the vegan-friendly cocktail recipes https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2024/09/mixing-fantastic-vegan-friendly.html

Why You Should Cover Your Christmas Turkey with Bacon Strips

As the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to the most iconic meal of the year – Christmas dinner. 

A beautifully roasted turkey, surrounded by golden roast potatoes, brussels sprouts, and rich gravy, is the star of the show. 

However, achieving the perfect turkey can be a challenge. For some, dry turkey is the bane of Christmas Day, but there’s a simple solution to prevent it: covering your turkey with strips of bacon.

Here’s why you should add this delightful twist to your festive feast:

1. Keeps the Turkey Moist

Turkey breast, in particular, tends to dry out quickly during roasting due to its low-fat content. By layering your bird with bacon, you’re providing a natural bastion of fat. As the bacon cooks, its fat renders and drips down, basting the turkey throughout the roasting process. This keeps the meat juicy and prevents the dreaded dry turkey.

2. Adds Flavour

Bacon isn’t just about fat – it’s packed with flavour. Wrapping your turkey in smoky, salty bacon will infuse the bird with rich, savoury notes that complement its mild taste. The bacon fat melts and soaks into the skin, giving you an incredibly flavourful outer layer. Plus, the contrast between crispy bacon and tender turkey is a texture lover’s dream.

3. Enhances the Crispy Skin

Who doesn’t love a turkey with perfectly crispy skin? The bacon helps achieve that golden, crispy finish. As the bacon cooks and crisps up, it also encourages the turkey’s skin underneath to do the same. The result? A deeply satisfying crunch with each bite.

4. Adds a Touch of Luxury

Bacon-wrapped turkey isn’t just practical; it also elevates the dish, giving it a bit of gourmet flair. It looks impressive on the table and can make your Christmas dinner feel that little bit more indulgent. After all, if you’re going to roast a turkey once a year, why not go all out?

5. Acts as a Shield

The turkey’s breast is prone to overcooking before the legs are done. By covering the bird with bacon, you’re essentially giving the breast an added layer of protection. This shield helps regulate the cooking process, ensuring the turkey cooks evenly. If the bacon gets too crispy before the bird is fully cooked, you can simply remove the bacon strips towards the end of the roasting time and let the turkey finish cooking uncovered.

6. A Versatile Addition

Covering your turkey with bacon also opens up plenty of room for creativity. You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme beneath the bacon for an extra infusion of flavour, or brush the bacon with honey or maple syrup for a sweet, glazed finish. You can even use different types of bacon – smoked, unsmoked, or streaky – depending on your personal preference.

7. A Crowd Pleaser

Let’s face it: everyone loves bacon. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, the addition of bacon to your Christmas turkey is bound to be a hit. Once the bird is carved, the crispy bacon strips can be served alongside the turkey or even crumbled over the stuffing or brussels sprouts for added flavour. It’s a festive win-win.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a surefire way to enhance your Christmas turkey, covering it with strips of bacon is a no-brainer. Not only will it keep the meat moist and full of flavour, but it will also give your festive feast that extra touch of luxury. So, this Christmas, don’t just settle for a traditional roast turkey – wrap it in bacon and enjoy a truly decadent and delicious centrepiece for your holiday meal.

Happy roasting, and Merry Christmas!

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The Next Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival: A Celebration of British Brewing

If you’re a fan of real ale, there’s one event that is likely already on your radar – the Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival. As one of the largest pub chains in the UK, Wetherspoon has made it a tradition to celebrate British brewing by hosting this highly anticipated festival. 

Whether you’re a seasoned real ale enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of craft beer, this event promises to have something for everyone.

What to Expect at the Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival

Wetherspoon's real ale festivals are known for offering an impressive selection of beers from across the UK, showcasing the work of small and independent breweries as well as established names. The upcoming festival is expected to continue this tradition, featuring a diverse range of ales that highlight the variety and innovation present in the British brewing scene.

From classic bitters and golden ales to porters, stouts, and seasonal brews, the festival’s menu will cater to all tastes. Expect beers with rich, malty notes, hoppy flavours, and unique experimental twists. Wetherspoon pubs also work hard to source international ales, so you’ll likely see guest appearances from breweries overseas, giving the festival a global edge.

A Showcase of Independent Breweries

One of the most exciting aspects of the Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival is its support for independent breweries. The festival provides a platform for smaller brewers to reach a wider audience, and it’s a fantastic opportunity for beer lovers to sample some truly unique ales that aren’t always available in every pub.

For those who are keen to support local brewers, this is an ideal chance to taste regional specialties and discover new favourites. Many breweries take the opportunity to create limited edition ales specifically for the festival, making the experience even more exclusive.

Affordable Prices

Wetherspoon is known for offering some of the most affordable pints on the high street, and the festival will be no exception. You’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of quality ales at wallet-friendly prices. This makes it the perfect time to try something new without breaking the bank. In fact, Wetherspoon prices for the festival ales are even lower than usual at £1.79 a pint. (Check for details)

Tasting Notes and Recommendations

During the festival, you’ll find tasting notes and information provided for each beer. This is particularly helpful for those who may not be familiar with the various styles of ale on offer. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or dark and complex, these notes will guide you towards the beers best suited to your palate.

In addition to the tasting notes, many Wetherspoon pubs offer ‘thirds’ – smaller measures of beer that allow you to sample several ales without committing to a full pint. It’s a great way to experience a broad selection and find the ones you enjoy most.

A Social Experience

Beyond the beers themselves, the Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival is a social occasion. It’s a chance to gather with friends, family, or fellow ale enthusiasts to share in the joy of good conversation over excellent drinks. The relaxed atmosphere of Wetherspoon pubs makes for the perfect backdrop to enjoy a few pints, whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor.

When and Where

The Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival typically takes place twice a year, in the spring and autumn, across all Wetherspoon pubs in the UK. With over 800 locations, you’re never too far from the action. Keep an eye out for announcements from your local pub regarding the specific dates and the ales they’ll be featuring. The next festival runs from Wednesday 9 October to Sunday 20 October inclusive.

Don’t Miss Out

Whether you’re a real ale connoisseur or just curious about what the festival has to offer, the Wetherspoon Real Ale Festival is a must-attend event for anyone who enjoys quality British beer. With its diverse selection, affordable prices, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a fantastic way to celebrate the craft of brewing and discover new favourites. There's ales from all over the world and vegan options, too.

Mark your calendars, and get ready to raise a glass to British ale!

https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/news/beer-festival

Why Restaurants, Pubs, and Eateries Should Avoid Loud Background Music

In recent years, loud background music has become a common feature in many restaurants, pubs, and eateries. 

While some believe it creates a lively atmosphere, there are numerous reasons why this trend can have a negative impact on the dining experience. Here’s why these establishments should rethink the volume of their background music:

1. Conversation Becomes Impossible

One of the primary reasons people visit restaurants and pubs is to enjoy time with friends, family, or colleagues. Whether it’s a casual meal or a more formal gathering, conversations are a central part of the experience. 

Loud background music can make it difficult, if not impossible, to engage in meaningful conversation. Diners find themselves raising their voices to be heard, leading to discomfort, frustration, and even a strained atmosphere. When conversation becomes a struggle, the enjoyment of the meal or drink can significantly diminish.

2. It Detracts From the Dining Experience

For many, dining out is more than just eating; it’s an experience. People want to appreciate the flavours, aromas, and textures of their food in a relaxed setting. Loud music often distracts from this, making it harder to focus on the culinary journey. Research has shown that loud noise can interfere with our ability to properly taste food, as it desensitises our perception of flavours. This means that what could have been an extraordinary meal may be reduced to something forgettable simply because the music drowned out the finer details of the dining experience.

3. Stress and Discomfort for Patrons

High noise levels, including loud music, can lead to increased stress and anxiety. What should be a relaxing evening out can quickly turn into an unpleasant experience when the environment feels chaotic. For patrons who are sensitive to noise or suffer from hearing impairments, the stress can be even more pronounced, making them less likely to return. A calm and inviting atmosphere, with music at a moderate volume, fosters comfort and encourages customers to stay longer and spend more time enjoying their meal or drink.

4. Impacts Staff Performance

It’s not just customers who suffer from loud background music – staff are affected too. In a busy restaurant or pub, clear communication is essential. If staff members have to shout orders to each other over blaring music, mistakes are more likely to happen, whether it’s incorrect orders or miscommunication about customer needs. Additionally, the noise can contribute to fatigue and stress among employees, ultimately impacting their performance and mood. A calmer, quieter atmosphere allows staff to work more efficiently and maintain a pleasant demeanour towards customers.

5. Alienating a Segment of Customers

Loud music may appeal to a younger, more energetic crowd, but it can alienate other demographics. Families with young children, older patrons, or people looking for a quiet, relaxed evening out are unlikely to return if they are overwhelmed by excessive noise. A balance between atmosphere and comfort is crucial to ensuring that a wide range of customers feel welcome and at ease in the establishment. Failing to strike that balance can drive away customers who value a more peaceful environment.

6. Legal and Health Implications

While this may be less commonly discussed, noise levels in public spaces can sometimes border on the illegal. Excessive noise may contravene local regulations, particularly if it disturbs neighbouring businesses or residential areas. Additionally, exposure to prolonged loud music can lead to hearing damage, both for staff and regular patrons. By keeping background music at a reasonable level, restaurants and pubs can help protect their staff from potential long-term health risks while adhering to local noise ordinances. It can also adversely impact people who are on the Autistic Spectrum, those suffering from Tinnitus,  etc.

7. Encourages Longer Stays and Repeat Business

A comfortable atmosphere invites patrons to stay longer and enjoy more of what the restaurant or pub has to offer. When background music is loud, people are often eager to leave quickly after eating or drinking, which can reduce the overall time spent in the establishment and lower sales. On the other hand, when the environment is conducive to conversation and relaxation, customers are more likely to order additional items like desserts, drinks, or coffee, boosting revenue. Satisfied customers also become repeat customers, returning time and again to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Conclusion

While background music can certainly enhance the ambiance of a restaurant, pub, or eatery, it’s essential that it complements rather than overpowers the dining experience. Loud music disrupts conversation, detracts from the enjoyment of food, and can create an atmosphere of stress and discomfort. By keeping music at a moderate volume, establishments can ensure a more pleasant and welcoming environment for all patrons, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and encouraging repeat business.

Discover the Gratitude Café: A Hidden Gem in Wellington, Telford

Nestled in the heart of Wellington, Telford, the Gratitude Café, in Duke Stret, offers a unique blend of warmth, community spirit, and delicious food that has quickly made it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. 

Whether you’re in the mood for a cosy cup of coffee, a hearty lunch, or just a friendly chat, this café delivers an experience that is far more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect, relax, and feel truly welcome.

A Café with a Heart

What sets the Gratitude Café apart from other eateries in the area is its deep commitment to creating a space where everyone feels at home. As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted by a welcoming atmosphere that radiates kindness and inclusivity. The décor is charmingly eclectic, with mismatched furniture, soft lighting, and thoughtful touches that reflect the café's ethos of gratitude and mindfulness.

The Gratitude Café takes pride in promoting a sense of community, encouraging patrons to slow down and take a moment to appreciate life’s little joys. Whether it’s a warm conversation with the staff, a book from the community library shelf, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere, the café is designed to help you unwind from the daily hustle and bustle.

Food for the Soul

The menu at the Gratitude Café is a delightful mix of wholesome, freshly prepared dishes that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for something hearty and delicious, the café has something to offer. Their focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients means that every dish is as fresh as it is flavourful.

From light bites like avocado toast and homemade soups to more substantial offerings like smashed burgers, veggie burgers and hearty sandwiches, there’s a dish to suit every taste. For those with a sweet tooth, the café’s selection of homemade cakes and pastries is simply irresistible. Pair your meal with one of their expertly brewed coffees, a pot of loose-leaf tea, or a refreshing smoothie, and you’ve got the perfect meal for any time of day.

Sustainability and Local Support

At its core, the Gratitude Café is about giving back to the local community. Their focus on sustainability is evident in everything they do, from the use of eco-friendly packaging to their partnerships with local suppliers. They believe in supporting small, independent businesses in the area, ensuring that every cup of coffee or slice of cake you enjoy has a positive impact on the local economy.

The café also regularly hosts community events, such as book clubs, mindfulness sessions, and workshops, fostering a sense of connection among Wellington’s residents. These events reflect the café’s mission to be more than just a business—they want to be a space where people come together, share ideas, and inspire one another.

A Personal Touch

One of the things that truly makes the Gratitude Café special is its staff. Friendly, attentive, and always ready with a smile, they go out of their way to make every visitor feel valued. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’re likely to find yourself having a conversation with the staff that goes beyond the usual pleasantries, making you feel like part of the Gratitude Café family.

Perfect for All Occasions

Whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee on your way to work, meeting friends for a leisurely lunch, or looking for a quiet spot to read or work, the Gratitude Café is the perfect destination. Its relaxed vibe makes it ideal for both solo visitors and groups, with plenty of seating options to accommodate everyone.

They also host musical events, too.

Conclusion

The Gratitude Café is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat—it's a place that embodies the values of kindness, community, and mindfulness. With its focus on fresh, locally sourced food, eco-friendly practices, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all, it’s no wonder this charming spot has become a favourite in Wellington, Telford. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax, recharge, and enjoy a meal that nourishes both body and soul, the Gratitude Café is the perfect place to do so.

Next time you’re in Wellington, be sure to stop by the Gratitude Café. You’ll leave feeling not just satisfied, but uplifted and connected to the community around you.

The Benefits of Using CoQ10 for Health and Wellbeing

In recent years, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has gained significant attention in the health and wellness community. As a naturally occurring antioxidant in the body, CoQ10 plays a vital role in energy production and protecting cells from oxidative damage. 

But why should you consider incorporating CoQ10 into your daily routine? Here, we’ll explore the key benefits of CoQ10 and how it supports overall health.

1. Boosts Energy Levels

CoQ10 is essential for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule responsible for cellular energy. ATP powers the basic functions of our cells, and by supporting its production, CoQ10 helps improve energy levels, particularly in organs with high energy demands like the heart, kidneys, and muscles. Those who experience fatigue or reduced stamina may find CoQ10 supplements beneficial in revitalising their energy levels.

2. Promotes Heart Health

One of the most well-researched benefits of CoQ10 is its positive impact on cardiovascular health. The heart is a highly active organ, requiring vast amounts of energy to function effectively. CoQ10 has been shown to improve heart muscle strength, reduce oxidative damage, and support overall heart function. Studies suggest that CoQ10 may also help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart failure in some individuals.

3. Reduces the Effects of Ageing

As we age, our body’s natural levels of CoQ10 decline, which can contribute to the ageing process. By replenishing these levels through supplementation, CoQ10 may help slow down some of the signs of ageing. Its potent antioxidant properties combat free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to wrinkles, fine lines, and reduced skin elasticity. This has led to CoQ10 being a popular ingredient in many skincare products aimed at anti-ageing.

4. Supports Cognitive Function

The brain, much like the heart, requires a significant amount of energy to function at its best. CoQ10 helps maintain the energy balance in brain cells, supporting cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and mental clarity. Emerging research suggests that CoQ10 may even help in protecting the brain against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, by reducing oxidative stress.

5. Improves Exercise Performance

For those looking to enhance their athletic performance, CoQ10 could be a useful supplement. Studies have found that CoQ10 may improve exercise endurance and reduce muscle fatigue by enhancing the body’s energy production and protecting against exercise-induced oxidative stress. Athletes and active individuals may notice improved recovery times and better stamina when using CoQ10 regularly. There's also evidence that CoQ10 can help in reducing pain. I was recommended to take it for sciatic pain and the difference it made to my condition was nothing short of remarkable and very rapid. 

6. Supports Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Some research has shown that CoQ10 may be beneficial for individuals managing type 2 diabetes. It appears to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving mitochondrial function, which in turn enhances insulin sensitivity. Though more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that CoQ10 supplementation may help reduce the complications associated with diabetes.

7. Aids Fertility

For both men and women, CoQ10 may support fertility by improving the quality of eggs and sperm. In women, CoQ10’s ability to support energy production in cells helps maintain the health of eggs, particularly as they age. For men, CoQ10 has been linked to improved sperm count and motility, making it a potential aid for couples facing fertility challenges.

8. Acts as a Powerful Antioxidant

CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can lead to chronic inflammation and has been linked to various health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. By reducing oxidative damage, CoQ10 helps protect cells and supports overall health.

Conclusion

CoQ10 offers a wide range of health benefits, from boosting energy levels and supporting heart health to improving exercise performance and reducing the effects of ageing. Whether you’re looking to enhance your overall wellbeing or address specific health concerns, CoQ10 can be a valuable addition to your health regimen. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.

If you’re looking to improve your energy, protect your cells from oxidative stress, and promote long-term health, CoQ10 might just be the supplement you’ve been searching for.

Local pubs deliver invaluable socio-economic value, ministers must act to save them – new report urges

The government must overhaul a counterproductive regulatory and tax landscape that threatens the future of the ever-popular British local pub as a vital social and economic anchor for communities across the country, a study published by the think-tank Localis today warns.

In a report issued today at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool entitled ‘Inn-Valuable 2: unlocking the socio-economic potential of our nation’s pubs’, Localis urges the government to launch a taskforce to clear obstacles that endanger the beer and pub sector which cumulatively supports more than one million jobs, generates £34.3bn in GVA to the economy and delivers £11.4bn in tax revenues to the Exchequer annually.

According to polling undertaken by YouGov for the report, 72% of people felt the impact of pubs to community life to be positive. When asked if pubs are important in bringing people together, over four-in-five (81%) of British adults agreed they are, with just 14% feeling they are not.

Polling undertaken for the report showed nearly three quarters (73%) of British adults felt pubs can help combat loneliness in their local area. 

Among pro-community activities supported by local pubs, almost half (42%) of people were aware of pub events that bring the community together, over a quarter (27%) knew of local pubs that supported charitable causes and close to one in five, 19%, knew of local pubs that supported vulnerable people in their local area.

The research identified from case studies taken pubs across the country some dominant themes on how the sector supports local people and communities, namely by:

combatting isolation

supporting local causes

bringing local business together

keeping prices down so pubs remain accessible social spaces for communities.

Pollsters also learned among those who’ve ever visited a pub more than half (53%) had met a friend in one, while nearly two-in-five (38%) of people had visited the pub to meet up with family members, a quarter (26%) had enjoyed Sunday lunch in one and 11% of the public had attended a pub-held birthday party in that timespan. Also, 7% of the public had used pubs for dating purposes and 20% watched a sporting event in a pub.

A key recommendation of the report calls for short-term support by extending business rates relief for the hospitality industry and to increasing the window for this to three years in line with the spending review period to give long-term certainty to pub landlords.

The report authors also call for a government taskforce to arrest the decline of the Great British pub which would identify policies to ensure long-term sustainability for the sector, including:

reviewing business rates and excise duty;

providing employment incentives so pubs keep employing younger members of staff;

examining planning policies to support the night-time economy and preserving the role of local pubs as social, cultural and economic anchors in our towns and villages.

Report author and Localis head of research, Joe Fyans, said: “Pubs are more than just businesses; they are the heart and soul of our communities.

“To ensure their long-term survival, we need a policy framework that recognises their value and supports their continued success."

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, added: “This research cements what people up and down the country know and believe – that the pub is a home from home, the beating heart of our towns and villages, and offers a warm welcome to people from all walks of life.

“As this research proves, pubs aren’t just about a pint – people know that pubs stave off loneliness, support the vulnerable in their communities, and raise millions for charity.

“While we know brewers and pubs invest billions into the economy, their huge contribution to our communities and society is priceless and they must be supported.

“Government must use this Budget to cut beer duty, reform business rates, and maintain 75% business rates relief so that pubs and brewers can remain a cherished part of society.”

https://www.localis.org.uk