I can't believe it but we are into the last week of our financial year. Amazing! It seems only yesterday that I was putting the finishing touches to the 2008 - 2009 plan and being amazed that it was almost the end of last year!

So, how did we do? Well not bad really in that most of my predictions turned out to be true. Maybe I was a bit on the optimistic side but that's how I am. I didn't predict the huge pressure on margins caused by our everpresent and overactive government who has introduced the duty accelerator to ensure we don't benefit from the VAT reduction and hikes duty by a massive 8% each year for the next four years; by the nasty change to the exchange rate that makes importing wine a major nightmare and the ridiculously cavalier attitude of our landlords / nominated beer and cider suppliers who have just whacked up our supplies by a massive 6%. As we are tied we can't look elsewhere (roll on the free market) and so end up in a very uncompetitive position vis a vis the free houses and the supermarkets. Excuse me while I just see which six pubs have been closed today so that they can reopen as Tesco neighbourhood stores, complete with cheap canned beer offers, or turned into private houses.

Do I sound bitter and twisted? Well I am not! Despite the above it has been a superb year, thanks mostly to our customers. We have had bar loads of fun in so many different ways. Wine tastings galore have been educational and driven the evolution of our winelist; Fundraising events have helped us to raise thousands of pounds for charities; Themed dinners such as Death by Pork and Curry Night have been well supported and fun; New Years Eve gastronomic evening went down very well and has given us an idea for its development next year. The share club continues to lose fortunes but provide a reason to watch the market and to go out and commiserate and we have a better range than ever of real ales on handpump. Black Sheep would have to be the one that has come out tops but beers from Hook Norton and Adnams have been popular too. Oh, and our own pigs too. They have added a little twist to the menu and a good talking point, especially when I go off with may artificial insemination kit and a particularly attractive member of staff on the pretence of needing someone to hold a tail!

There is no doubt that 2009 - 2010 is going to be a very different year. Punch Taverns is trying its best to raise money by selling off freeholds, though it doesn't appear to have recognised that some are of their valuations are a touch ambitious. With the share price in the 30's and debts having to be refinanced there is a distinct possibility things will change over the year. I wonder what might happen to Enterprise Inns, our landlords? There are some interesting stories circulating and they too may need to raise some cash. If I get the offer there will be a fundraising pot on the bar, quick as a flash! I really do believe that things are likely to get economically worse before they get better. We are trying to alleviate the pain for you as best we can by cutting our margin a little and searching out better value wine and produce. We are offering early evening deals and 442 offers to help you save a bit of money but still come out. Above all, we are ensuring that when you do come to The Inn you get the best possible abuse, service, food and atmosphere in the hope that it makes visiting the Inn an unmissable part of your routine for 2009. Knowing as many of you as I do, I can be sure of your feedback and support, helping us to continue giving you what you want at a price you can just afford.

See you with a glass in your hand soon,

Best Wishes

Gerry

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