The George Inn in Chardstock is one of many pubs in East Devon that has struggled. The community worked hard to try and save it last November, but in the current business-unfriendly climate under the Labour government, the numbers simply didn’t add up. The pub remains closed.
Pubs and hospitality are being squeezed on costs, and many businesses across Honiton and Sidmouth are now waiting anxiously for Rachel Reeves’ upcoming Budget to see what little hope, or any, there is for them.
Our Liberal Democrat MP, Richard Foord, backed this change in government. But looking at what’s happening to local businesses on the ground, we have to ask: is this really the better future we were promised?
