Last orders at 8

PUBLICANS are pleading for help as the cost of living crisis and rising energy bills force them into drastic measures to stay afloat.

- NATASHA WYNARCZYK

Our investigation found some pubs close at 8pm, do not sell food or shut altogether on the quietest days to save on staff and energy costs.

A poll of British Beer and Pub Association members found 32% had reduced their hours due to high costs.

BBPA boss Emma McClarkin said: "They have been grappling with a multitude of challenges.

'The decision to reduce hours is not one pubs want to make it is a survival strategy in an unsustainably tough environment.

"The Government must act to support pubs to alleviate these pressures and ensure the local remains at the heart of our communities."

Chairman of the Campaign for Real Ale Nik Antona said: "Pubs are swimming upstream against challenges such as escalating costs of goods and employing staff, sky-high energy bills, the burden of unfair business rates and customers tightening their belts.