By Isle of Wight Observer
The landlord of a popular West Wight pub has pleaded: ‘Use us or lose us’.
Jack Rigby, landlord of the Sun Inn, Calbourne, writing on Facebook, said: “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s with a heavy heart that we write this post, but the time has come for us and other hospitality venues and shops on the Island to say it as it is: we’re at a ‘use us or lose us’ stage.
“The costs of everything have skyrocketed – utilities, ingredients, stock, wages – you name it. Many businesses, including ours, are feeling the pinch like never before. We’re pleading with everyone, not just for us, but for all local pubs, restaurants, shops, and independently run businesses in your area: ‘If you don’t want to lose these vital community hubs, please start using them!’
“Nothing has been the same since Covid, and many places are really struggling to stay afloat. The ferry prices are at an all-time high and also affecting summer trade.
“We need your support now more than ever. Please, if you don’t want to see more closures of our Island’s shops, bars, and restaurants, make an effort to visit them and, where possible, pay in cash.
“Let’s support each other and get through this storm together. Your local businesses are counting on you!”
