Junction pub, Rainford, reduces food times amid rising energy costs

The Junction pub on News Lane, Rainford, has adopted new food serving times to help deal with the pressures caused by rising electricity bills.

Meals will be served from midday to 8pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, although midweek functions that require food will be unaffected.

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Landlord Paul Draper, who took the reins of the pub in 2012, said he hopes the reduction will be a "temporary fix" to enable the pub to "adapt to the challenges of operational costs".

Over the past 12 years, the pub has been transformed from an ailing run-down venue, to a buzzing hive of activity, with a new kitchen facility, roof terrace and is particularly well-known for its booming live music scene.

The Junction pub, in Rainford (Image: St Helens Star)

'It breaks my heart to make this decision'

Paul said: "This is the first time in 12 years that we will not be serving food everyday and it breaks my heart to make this decision but the extortionate cost to businesses of electricity has forced this move.

"We are currently assessing our electric consumption, on which the kitchen has a high impact and we are looking into alternative renewable power sources and possibly going off grid."

Paul added: "This is a temporary fix in order for the business to adapt to the challenges of operational costs and in late April the likely decision will be made to resume normal hours.

"This will come in time for the 'May the fourth' Star Wars Beer festival and Jessfest Charity fundraiser supporting children with cancer which both take place the first weekend in May. 

"On a positive note the Junction has reintroduced gaming/video game machines and a much-welcomed return of the pool table with which a pool team has been re-established and all are welcome to join by registering with the bar staff."