Future of village pub in Audlem in doubt as landlords leave

A couple who run the Lord Combermere pub in Audlem have announced they are leaving, throwing the future of the pub into doubt.

Rachel Tremblay and Cameron Cousens revealed last night that they are to leave after two and a half years running the venue.

The couple, trading under Nomad Bars Ltd, took over the pub on The Square in 2023 and it became independent from breweries.

But in a statement, they blamed rising costs on the Government which had become “unsustainable”.

They said: “It has been our pleasure to become part of the Audlem community and since the day we took over The Lord C, you have been kind, supportive and generous with your custom.

“It has never been taken for granted, and we cannot thank you enough for being the absolute best community and customers.

“However, things have become harder and harder in this economic climate.

“Many of you may have seen hospitality in the headlines lately and there’s a lot of truth in the reports – government policies have made things extra tough in a climate where costs keep rising.

“We can’t ignore the challenges and unfortunately it has become unsustainable for us to carry on.

“We are gutted but remain forever grateful for the times we have had here.

“Our team have worked so hard to create memorable experiences and food for you all, and we are so proud of each and everyone of them. THANK YOU to them all.

“There is still some uncertainty about what happens next at The Lord C and we hope it can continue in some form without us, and will keep you updated as and when we know more.

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the company, the good times, the laughs, the epic parties, the shared moments and stories and for making us all so welcome in Audlem.”

The news comes amid growing campaign calling for a cut in VAT for the local hospitality sector as restaurants, pubs and cafes all struggle with rising costs.

These have been fuelled by rises in minimum wage,  National Insurance, costs of food produce and rises in alcohol duty.

Dozens of hospitality owners met with Crewe and Nantwich MP Connor Naismith in Nantwich yesterday to raise their concerns and press for the Government to cut VAT to 10% for hospitality.

(Main image by David Weston under creative commons)