Local pubs are suffering under the Government's beer tax

A campaign and petition to help save a family-orientated community pub in Bristol from permanent closure has been launched.

The Lamplighters pub in Shirehampton has recently been closed by owners Enterprise Inns while moves are potentially in progress to find a new publican for the facility, after the previous tenant moved on.

However, fears are growing within the local community that the pub, which is in need of some renovation, may not reopen. Residents believe that, with increased taxation on beers by the Government coupled with the stiff competition offered by supermarkets offering discounted alcohol, there is the possibility that the company may instead decide that reopening the Lamplighters may no longer be a viable option.

In response, a campaign designed to save the community pub has been launched. It includes a petition designed to demonstrate community support for the Lamplighters Pub, as well as asking Enterprise Inns to reopen the pub, and calling on local residents to pledge their continued support for the business in the years to come.

The campaign in the brainchild of local campaigner Charlotte Leslie, who is also supporting a nationwide campaign against the Government’s assault on pubs at www.backthepub.com

Charlotte, who is also the Conservative Prospective MP for Bristol North West said:

“ Pubs like the Lamplighters are so much more than just a place to drink. They are right at the heart of the community. What is more, the Lamplighters Pub is an historic building, and has been a welcoming family venue for many years. It would be a tragedy if the current economic climate, and the Government’s beer tax, deprives future generations of a much-loved family institution.
” This petition is designed to demonstrate the level of public support and affection for the pub to Enterprise Inns, as they consider the pub’s future.  But  it is also a reminder to all of us that in supporting local amenities like this, the message is simple, ‘use it, or lose it’.”

The most recent Beer & Pub Association report highlighted that 52 pubs are closing every week, while research carried out by the Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) showed 84% of people believe a pub is as essential to village life as a shop or post office.

Anyone wishing to sign the petition and back the campaign should visit www.savethelamplighterspub.charlotteleslie.com