Pub landlords forced to leave.

South West publicans claim traditional English pubs could disappear due to high rents. Breweries believe the rent inflation is justified and are also asking pub landlords to sign 21 year leases which could ensure the landlord has more security.

Tim Hibbart, landlord of the Foxhound in Brixton near Plymouth, has been forced to move out after seven years as his rent is too high. Denis Crocker, of the Hill Park in Plymouth, was showing the books to Dell Sinclair, who is taking over the pub shortly. He too is leaving due to inflated rents and brewery imposed sanctions. Bill Vint, landlord of the Golden Hind and chairman of the local Licensed Victuallers Association, says he believes due to these changes many smaller pubs will have to close, which will be a shame.