Volunteer honoured for 20 years of service to pubs

A man has won a national award for his service to his town's pubs and clubs.

Bill Donne was handed the National Pubwatch Award of Merit for two decades of volunteering with Reading Pubwatch.

National Pubwatch said Mr Donne, who is honorary secretary of the Reading branch, was "instrumental" in creating a safe night-time economy in the Berkshire town.

Mr Donne said he was "delighted and honoured" by the award.

The night-time economy had changed over the years, he said, particularly after the Covid pandemic.

People were now going home earlier after a night out, said Mr Donne, adding that there was a growing popularity for venues that offer other experiences, such as darts or shuffleboard.

"People want something more from going out in the evening," he said.

"It's not just about eating and drinking."

As a result of this, combined with rising costs, he said late night venues were struggling.

"There's been some significant factors that have affected the profitability of businesses, and more to come," he said.

"I think the next 12 to 18 months are going see a lot of cost pressures on businesses."

But, despite the uncertainty, Mr Donne said he was optimistic about the future.

"[Night-time venues] will survive - they always have done," he said, adding that he would continue supporting the industry.

"It's my intention to keep going for as long as I can," he said.

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