'Change needs to be made - otherwise the great British pub will be phased out': Boss of iconic Black Country pub and brewery tells of fears for the industry

That’s the damning verdict from a Black Country pub and brewery boss as news settled following the Government’s announcement about how it plans to support the hospitality industry.

Simon Massey, director at the popular Beacon Hotel and Sarah Hughes Brewery in Sedgley, highlighted fears of a gloomy year ahead for publicans battling increasing costs from all quarters.

In an attempt to lift spirits in the industry a little the Government this week announced that pubs and music venues would get a 15 per cent reduction in business rates following calls to help the hospitality industry which has been hit hard by rising costs for staff (increased National Insurance contributions and a higher National Minimum Wage), higher energy bills and looming business rate rises.

Mr Massey, however, is predicting that many local pubs won’t make it through 2026.

He said: “We’re lucky because we’re a really busy pub - but this pub is a Grade II-listed building and it takes a lot of maintenance and running a pub is a passion rather than a job.

“It's just a crying shame that pubs - very good pubs and historic pubs - are closing because we just can't afford to run them.