A Swindon pub has been brought back from the brink of closure with help from its regulars and Arkell’s Brewery.
The New Inn, in Stratton St Margaret, was looking at shutting, is staying open with new Sky Sports and fittings - but landlord Adam Clay cannot say for how long.
He said: “As soon as England gets kicked out of the Euros, that was it as far as I was were concerned. Close the doors and walk away.
“We were losing money hand-over-fist, and I thought this was it.”
Adam had taken a 40 per cent pay cut and had not been making a profit for more than a year.
But after frank discussions with Arkell’s about how the pub can stay open, the brewery helped the pub get a cheaper deal on Sky Sports to show Swindon Town matches.
Sky Sports is due to be installed on August 2.
The pub also features new “eye-catching” blue signage and a completely redecorated lounge area, suitable for a quiet drink away from the sport and hubbub.
These were installed with help from the pub’s regulars who did not want to see their local close.
Adam said: “I said to them, I’ve got no money in which to invest in the pub. It's cost me a fortune to this point and I'm not prepared to spend any more.
“They have given up their free time and skills to try and help give it a push.”
Adam, 49, estimates that thousands have been put into the pub in recent months, and thanked parties who helped.
But the publican who also runs the Village Inn says he cannot guarantee how long the grace period will last.
He said: “I'm still very apprehensive. I think it's just one of those things that the greater community at large needs to engage with pubs in general.
“The regulars, they're great, and we love them to bits. But they're not enough. I think it is a cultural thing now where people have had it so hard post-Covid, people's attitudes to going out isn't what it was.
“I understand people haven’t got a lot of spare cash, but the message needs to go out, even if you only come in for a couple of soft drinks, every little helps.
“Wherever you live, wherever your local is, pop in every now and then, because they would love to see you.
“Just 10 more people a week, and you'd be surprised what a difference that makes.”
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