Pubs are a vital part of our local Village Centres and High Streets. I am well aware that our pubs shouldered a huge burden throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and measures through the grant programme and the furlough scheme were designed to help these businesses.

On a recent visit to the Avion in the centre of Aldridge Village I was able to hear first-hand the new pressures facing the licensing sector.

It was good to meet the Duty Manager Adam Foxall and representatives from Wetherspoons and hear about how the business is continuing to operate and the wider outreach work which they are doing in the Aldridge community.

Many Thanks to Adam and the team for hosting this visit.