There will be a Village Meeting at 7pm on Wednesday 24th September in the Village Hall.

In England and Wales, an estimated 412 pubs closed in 2024, which averages to over 34 pubs a month, while the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) estimated 378 closures in the UK in 2025.

North Perrott should consider itself very lucky in the circumstances, that Graham and Liz Neville have supported the Manor Arms during an incredibly difficult period of time and that we do still have a village pub at all.

Graham has now come to the conclusion that he and Liz can no longer support the business and will regretably close the pub in the very near future.

With Graham’s approval, Pip and I think that the best course of action is to call a VILLAGE MEETING at 7pm on Wednesday 24th September to discuss any ideas for the possible short, medium and long term plans for the Manor Arms.

At this point, Graham has no intention of putting the pub on the open market and so there is a period of time where we can consider either a community project an individual project or to introduce a buyer that can negotiate with Graham and Liz in private.

The meeting is intended to be brief and with only one agenda item. The aim is to brainstorm all possible avenues, any of which can be presented to Graham and Liz at a later date.

I urge everyone to attend the meeting and listen to the ideas raised and speak up if you wish your views to be known.

JONATHAN HOSKYNS

Chairman North Perrott Parish Council