Stanwick pub landlady's plea to Save Pub Life for post-lockdown night out with gift card lifeline

A pub landlady has asked locals and regulars to become beer buddies to help save their village pub with a match-funded gift card scheme organised by brewer Budwieser.

Customers of the Duke of Wellington pub in Stanwick can buy a gift card which they can spend after the coronavirus lockdown is lifted and the pub will receive the same amount as pledged from the beer firm.

Gift cards bought now can be redeemed when the pub re-opens and be spent on food or drink sold at the popular hostelry and restaurant.

Charmaine Vaz, the Duke of Wellington's owner and landlady, said: "We're overwhelmed by the support the village has given us. They really want their pub back."

Ms Vaz who took over the pub in 2015, has had to furlough 25 members of staff including kitchen and front-of-house staff during the coronavirus lockdown.

She said: "What else could we do? We did try to run a delivery service which had a brilliant response but it wasn't a long-term option.

"It's such a stressful thing. We're not sure when the money is coming so we're footing the bills.

"I feel it was the right thing that needed to happen - yes it's horrible - but when the money starts to flow through from the government it will be alright."

The 18th century pub and restaurant was named after the Duke of Wellington as, according to local legend, his eponymous boots were made in the village.

Recently restored by the Vaz family, the pub also has a double-deck barn which hosts regular music events and parties.

Ms Vaz added: "It's a successful pub and the community is missing their pub. We have joined Save Pub Life, to help locals live. You can buy a gift card from us to use when we re-open.

"Bud will match the value of the gift so that we get the money from the card, plus the donation, even though we are still closed.

"We'd love it if you could spread the word, to help us until we are able to serve you again."

To buy the gift cards click on the link to Save Pub Life. Each registered pub will be able to access a maximum of £1,000 match-funding from Budwieser.

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