Family to vacate pub after 9 years

The pub in Colindale was crowned Community Pub of the Year at the Great British Pub Awards in 2017 and 2019. 

The family will embark on a “new adventure” when they leave the pub on 14 April, Are, Em and Saxon announced on social media. 

“We would also like to thank all of our staff and those neighbours who have played an active part in the success of the Chandos Arms,” they said, adding, “we really hope you have an opportunity to swing by and say goodbye to us in person over the next month and watch this space for information about our leaving party.” 

The news was met with well wishes and heavy hearts. “Sad to hear, but all families need to have new adventures and yours is now,” replied the New Colindale Residents Association. 

Looking to the future

Another user wished the operators “all the best” for future adventures. “I hope the next person who take over will be as good as you are,” she said. “You have set a very high bar!” 

“Oh my word,” another replied. “What are we going to do now?” 

This comes after research from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) showed 21 pubs per week​ closed or lost licenses between July and December last year, with soaring energy costs and sky-high inflation rates packing pressure on the sector. 

Recent closures include Top 50 Gastropubs in Devon the Five Bells Inn​ and the Cadeleigh Arms,​ leaving operators “heart-broken”.  

Wake-up call

CAMRA chairman Nik Antona said the mass closures should be an “urgent wake-up call” for the Government. 

He continued: “Without a support package in the Spring Budget, we risk losing more pubs which are at the heart of community life and play such a crucial role in bringing people together and tackling loneliness and social isolation.  

“With the cost of doing business rocketing, energy costs sky-high and customers tightening their belts it is little wonder that hundreds of pubs across the country are closing for business or are standing empty. 

“We know the licensed trade can thrive and drive growth in the economy, but only if the Government acts quickly.