00:00Pubs. Thousands have closed over the last few years. It's estimated we've lost 25% of our pubs in recent years since the turn of the millennium. We're now down to 39,000 pubs in the UK. There were 69,000 in 1980. 69,000 down to 39,000. Think about that.
00:18And unfortunately, the rate of closure continues. And in fact, it's accelerating at the moment. You might be aware there's many threats facing pubs. Not least. Absurd taxation, VAT, business rates, which run fair to the pubs. And obviously a declining disposable income for many households as well. There's also a bit of pressure on people's disposable income on discretionary spending.
00:42So all I would say is, I'll leave it at that for the moment, but there is an autumn budget coming up. And if you care about pubs like this and all the other great pubs in Cornwall and beyond, do find time to write to your MP a few weeks before the autumn budget and say, do more support pubs. We can all play our part and do that. So please think about that.
01:03But today's about a celebration. This is about all that community pubs. And this one sets the bar high. The Hole in the Wall is a fantastic community pub with a great ambience and atmosphere.
01:14As well as being a focal point for the community, the pub's a wonderful place to spend time with family, friends and the local community.
01:21The pub did score very highly in all the judging criteria and the judges commented on the pub being very friendly, with very helpful and knowledgeable staff, well run and good value for money, well worth the visit.
01:30And I think the most telling statement of all the judges was, we would really like to stay the lot longer.
01:37And so it's all about something. The pub has an excellent selection of real ales. Of course, I hope you're enjoying one today, or most of you are.
01:44It's all the independent breweries with an array of styles, which are always served in tip-top condition.
01:49And of course, there's many other drinks really to enjoy as well.
01:52And of course, it's not just about the pub and the beer rather.
01:55It's got other things, like a wonderful garden with seating areas.
01:59You can bring your own food already. I mean, that's great, isn't it?
02:02People say, you have got to serve food to survive.
02:05But no, this one perhaps bucks the trend a bit.
02:08And there's a stuffed library.
02:11And lots of old-world char.
02:14I've kept you enough already.
02:15I'm going to hand over to Steve to say a few words in a minute.
02:17But there were some fantastic pubs in the region.
02:19There are really some great pubs in this southwest Reno camera of the country.
02:24And for this pub to come up top, it really is up top.
02:27It's a testament to what the great pub this must be.
02:29I think you all really appreciate it as well.
02:31Steve and his team have been rewarded for years of dedication and hard work.
02:36It's shown and turning the whole of the world to what's really now a destination pub.
02:40And it's really now the location for the range of these quality beers and so much more.
02:44Quite honestly, what's there not to like about this pub?
02:46Anything?
02:48Not for me, bang on.
02:49Downloads for me.
02:51So I'm very pleased to say that I'd like to congratulate Steve and all his team and the customers.
03:00Because everyone makes a pub, don't they?
03:01The customers as well.
03:02On being the 2025 camera, the Campaign for Real Ale, pub of the year.
03:09Congratulations, Steve.
03:10Yay!
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