Chris Maclean: a cruel fete

At the weekend we provided the bar at a village fete some miles from here.

For many years we have provided such bars for communities and events and, despite the new licensing laws making the process far more cumbersome than before, we still do a few. The ones we feel a responsibility for.

The one we did at the weekend was negotiated two years ago. There had been trouble before with drunkenness and louts. I was asked to provide the bar, maintain control and pay a premium of £200. In return I would receive exclusivity. We would be the sole refreshment provider at an established popular event.

I was reluctant to pay the premium. I don't for anyone else. But the deal seemed attractive and this was to be a bonus for my staff.

Last year our bar was set up in the scout tent where they were dispensing teas and coffees... and soft drinks at a fraction of the price I could sell them for. Ah well, it for the benefit of the village I muttered.

This year we arrived and set up the bar to discover the event organisers had also invited a local cider producer to provide a bar. And he was going to supply his wares cheaply because he was promoting his product.

Any hint of exclusivity vaporised instantly. Now it was war.

Once the cost of drinks and the premium had been removed from the takings we were left with a 'profit' of £184. I hadn't paid for staff, generator, fuel or any of the other costs. And on Sunday the weather was good. Heaven knows how much I'd have lost if it had rained.

I cannot believe the organisers view bars as such cash cows. Where do they get their information from? They want us to lug our gear across the county, set it up, provide the service, control the behaviour of the crowds, clear up the mess afterwards, take the profit - if there is any - and bear the loss when it happens. But still with an added premium of £200.

The greed of these organisers disgusts me. They are inadvertently destroying the fabric of community involvement. The role of the bar at such events isn't to get everyone drunk. Often it is the focal point and helps loosen people up to spend money. Yes, we can benefit. But so does everybody else. I am happy if the event goes well. I am happier if we can make a profit. But I am not happy when the promised viability is a lie.

I have written a letter. I don't think we'll be doing that one again. But before any licensee leaps forward to take on the role, beware. The promised monopoly isn't what it seems.