Local pubs are looking for other income streams amid “enormous pressures”.

The Watford Observer spoke with pub manager Patrick Ensor, from the Fox and Hounds in Rickmansworth High Street, about the situation for local businesses as an increasing number are closing across the country.

The 43-year-old said: “At the moment we are ok because I’m in contract, but my energy contract expires this month so prices will double.

“We will have to become more efficient, but in terms of profit it will wipe it out."

Becoming known for real ale has helped, but although business usually picks up in February the bills spike will keep the pub under the cosh.

“January is always a time when it slows down but it’s a double whammy for us because our chefs, who work so hard, take a month off to go back to Thailand to see their families, so we don’t have the kitchen,” Patrick added.

Rising manufacturing costs are also passed onto the pubs which eat into their profits. 

The manager said: “If we put prices up too much, people stop coming.

“I think people assume you make a fortune on a £5 pint but you don’t, there are so many costs.”

Train strikes have hit the industry, but the Fox and Hounds has been fortunate that many customers live in Rickmansworth, so are more likely to be around in the evenings when working from home.

Like many in the trade, Patrick, who lives above the pub with his fiancée, has had to find alternative incomes without the guarantee of a salary he can take out of the business.

This has included a marketing role and two businesses in the pub and brewery industry.

“It's not a lot but it’s a bit to keep the wolf from the door,” he added.

Having started at the pub in February 2020, Patrick explained he has seen many others struggle but hopes people see the positives and the pubs deserving of praise, which have worked hard to keep going.