Local MPs visit the Shoulder of Mutton pub in celebration of Pub is the Hub

They were also joined by John Longden, the chief executive of Pub is the Hub, who had assisted licensees Kate and David Deacon in setting up a village shop at the Shoulder of Mutton, which will have been open for four years this Easter.

Mulholland said: “It was great to see the excellent work done by Pub is the Hub in action and the new and innovative ways in which pubs, such as the Shoulder of Mutton, are seeking to secure their businesses, while providing another vital service to the local community.”

Nigel Adams MP said: “The Shoulder of Mutton is a brilliant example of a pub that has moved with the times, while keeping everything that is right about a traditional village pub being the hub of the community.”

John Longden, chief exec-utive of Pub is the Hub, added: “It is most encouraging for good licensees, such as Kate and David, to have their support for services in the local community recognised by a visit from two local MPs.”