CAMPAIGN TO SAVE THE ALBION AT ARNSIDE GOES TO PARLIAMENT

Today in Parliament, MP Tim Farron made an impassioned plea for help to save local pubs. In particular, Tim raised his concerns about the Albion pub at Arnside, which has been put at risk due to the decision taken by Thwaites to change all of their managed pubs - such as the Albion - into tenanted pubs.

Mr Farron has expressed his concern that the decision represents an irresponsible transfer of risk from the company to small tenants, which could lead to the closure of pubs like the Albion.

Speaking at the meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group, Mr Farron said 'John and Lynne, the couple who run the Albion, are the lynchpins of the local community.

"The Albion is at the heart of so many activities in Arnside and they are been treated dreadfully. Village pubs act as a kind of 'social glue' binding communities together and providing a common meeting place, they must not be put at risk in this way."

Mr Farron urged MPs to back his Early Day Motion which calls on Thwaites to reverse their decision.

This week, Thwaites are set to advertise the tenancies for their currently managed pubs, such as the Albion. Mr Farron is therefore asking Thwaites to consider allowing a bid from the local community to ensure that the pub remains at the heart of Arnside's social and community life.

Early Day Motion 529 tabled by Tim Farron MP entitled 'Managed Pubs'.

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