Pub's 'amazing' gesture to customers after hearing 'upsetting but true thing'

The pub was touched by hearing an "upsetting but true thing" from one of its customers - and has now responded

An historic pub has been praised for its heartwarming response to the ongoing cold snap. The Legh Arms in Knutsford has made a kind gesture to its customers amid the freezing temperatures of recent days.

For the pub's owners took to Facebook to make an offer - after hearing an "upsetting but true thing" from some of its customers.

The pub dates back to the 16th century and is based on Brook Lane in the historic market town of Knutsford in Cheshire.

In the Facebook post the pub said: "Recently been hearing customers say it's cheaper to come for a couple of pints in here where it’s warm than to put the gas on every night to sit inside.

"What an upsetting but true thing. Energy bills have soared which has brought on the whole ‘Cost of Living Crisis’.

"We all deserve to be warm and dry without worrying about the cost. That's why, at the Legh, we have decided to offer free tea and coffee to anyone who wants to come in and warm up."

Followers on Facebook have praised the pub for its gesture. Christopher Hickey wrote: "What a lovely thing to do."

Emma Heffman said: "That's really kind of you, it is a lovely pub."

Christine Bromiley agreed saying: "That's so kind and will be much appreciated." Barry Wardle said simply: "Just amazing."

Pub landlady Holly Smith, 32, told the MEN they were just happy to be able to help their local community amid the current freezing temperatures and snowfall.

She said: "We get quite a lot of regulars coming in saying 'we've just come in for a few pints because it's cheaper to come in than stay at home', and we do try to have offers on to help.

"But with the current freezing cold weather we just came up with the idea to do free teas and coffees for people to come in out of the cold. Since the Facebook post, we've had quite a few people come in.

"It just goes to show people are really struggling with heating their home."

Holly said that with the pub being in such an old building, originally dating back to 1584, they do their best to keep it constantly warm by running the heating all night. There are also log-burning stoves in some areas of the pub too.

She said: "We get a lot of older clientele here, and they feel the cold. It costs a fortune, but we keep the heating on all night to make sure it's toasty for everybody."