Wombourne locals start petition AGAINST pub selling food

The Old Bush Inn, based on High Street, Wombourne, has been at the heart of the village for many years, according to punters.

They are now campaigning against pub operator Marston's from introducing a food menu which they say will 'spoil the good traditional atmosphere of a village pub concentrating on serving drinks and the occasional snacks.'

The pub is located next door to The Vine pub which does serve food.

The petition was launched last week by regular Hayley Hall.

In a statement on the petition site Change.org, Ms Hall said: "Not content with the trade of regular drinkers and visitors who just want a traditional drinking pub Marstons want to introduce a food menu into the Old Bush Inn at Wombourne, South Staffordshire.

"This is Wombourne, a large medieval village with a population of just over 14,000 that already has 10 dining pubs within a five-mile radius of the Old Bush as well as restaurants and cafes.

"In an industry where competition is tough and customers are even tougher why spoil the good traditional atmosphere of a village pub concentrating on serving drinks and the occasional snacks. Getting the basics right mean so much more.

"The demise of the old style pub has been for several reasons, one of which being the insistence of pub companies forcing retail formats on managers and customers that nobody wants in the name of progress and competition. Well, Marstons you have got this one all wrong! Leave the Old Bush alone! Let the drinkers rule.

"Paul and Shell are working hard to increase revenue in the short time they have been there. They don't need a food menu to do it."

The petition already amassed 100 signatures by Tuesday afternoon. Once complete, it will be delivered to Marston's.

Andy Smith who signed the petition said: "Actually within a five mile radius there are 100+ places to eat, but very few where you can go for a comfortable drink, talk to people you've never met and build a community. The food industry is gamble, the beer industry will always be there."

Laura Moss said: "The Bush needs to stay as it is, a proper pub."

Daniel Williams of Marston’s said: “The Old Bush served food for many years and we are pleased to be reintroducing a menu at the pub. We want to give customers a great pub on their doorstep offering all the things customers want from their local.”