A County Durham pub will open its doors to help those struggling with the cost of living crisis keep warm this winter.
The Derwent Arms, in Edmundbyers, has pledged as part of its new initiative that hot drinks, company and warmth will be freely available at the pub all winter.
The pub has promised it will provide open fires to guests which will remain lit throughout winter from 9am to closing time.
They said this was motivated by the cost of living crisis and rising fuel bills hitting households and businesses who will have to cut back over the next few months.
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Oliver Bennet, co-founder of the Inn Hospitality Group said: “Although winter always brings challenges, this one may well be the most severe yet, not necessarily in terms of snow and ice, but in terms of poverty and helplessness.
“Everyone’s likely to feel the pinch financially and a lot of people are worried.
“They don’t know if or how they’ll manage and, if they live on their own, the temptation will be to lock their doors and hunker down, and we want to let them know they don’t have to. That we can and want to help.”
He explained visitors are free to stay as long as they need to and do not need to buy anything.
The pub will offer a book sharing library with free hot drinks to anyone donating a book.
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Meanwhile, Mr Bennet also said hot or boiling water for thermoses or hot water bottles is available on request and will be provided by staff
The pub said their aim is to provide a haven for people who need it and to reduce loneliness, especially among the elderly.
“It’s been a sanctuary for residents and tourists for decades,” said Mr Bennet.
“Anyone who wants to simply come in and sit by the fire with a book is more than welcome and, if they bring in their flask or hot water bottle, we’ll fill it up for them free of charge so they can take it home with them.”
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