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Joe Lycett's £100 Pub Tab Surprise
17 Oct
Summary
- Comedian Joe Lycett gifted £100 tabs to 30 pubs.
- Gesture aims to support pubs closing at two per day.
- Prime Minister announced business rate cuts for pubs.
Comedian Joe Lycett has announced a generous initiative to support local pubs, placing £100 behind the bar in 30 establishments across England. This gesture is a direct response to the concerning rate of pub closures, which Lycett notes is "two a day," a statistic that deeply saddens him. His Channel 4 show, Live From The Lycett Arms, revealed the selected pubs, including The Crown on Whalley Road in Accrington, Lancashire. Landlord Will Gilmartin expressed his amazement and gratitude for the surprise support.
The landlord of The Crown, which has been run by Will and his wife Emma for 16 years, highlighted the ongoing difficulties faced by publicans. He cited the cost of living crisis as a major factor making business "very, very difficult." In parallel, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has unveiled plans to aid the sector, announcing a 20% cut in business rates for eligible pubs, social clubs, and live music venues. This measure is scheduled to take effect from April 2027, providing a potential future lifeline for the industry.
