A couple who run a popular Morecambe Bay pub say they’re ‘absolutely heartbroken’ after being given notice to leave.
Josh and George Galvin have managed The Hest Bank since 2024, but were told they had to leave in four weeks by national pub chain Punch Pubs, owners of the venue, last week.
In a statement, the couple said: ‘’Unfortunately this wasn’t our decision, and it’s something we’re both absolutely heartbroken about.
‘’The Hest Bank hasn’t just been our place of work, it’s been our home and a huge part of our lives. To know we’ll be saying goodbye to both the pub and our home is incredibly difficult to come to terms with.
‘’Over the last nearly two years, we’ve put so much time, energy and heart into trying to make The Hest Bank the best it can be. We’ve introduced new events, tried new ideas, supported the local community and worked hard to create a welcoming place where people can come together.
‘’Of course, there have been challenges along the way and things haven’t always been perfect, but we can genuinely say that we gave it everything we had.
‘’What makes this especially difficult is the people. We’ve met some amazing customers, made genuine friendships and become part of a community that has supported us throughout our time here. That is something we will never forget.''
Image: Punch Pubs
The decision has caused anger among the local community and pub goers.
Their friend, Amanda Dunnell, told Beyond Radio: ‘’The community is so upset about this.
‘’These two lads have worked tirelessly to make something good. [The pub] has changed hands so many times over the years and it's been nice to finally have people in that care about the community.’’
George and Josh added that they were grateful for the support of their customers.
‘’We want to say a massive thank you to our team, our regulars, our customers and everyone in the local community who has supported us,’’ they said.
‘’Your kindness and support have meant more than you probably realise.
‘’We’re not gone just yet, though. We’d love to see as many of you as possible before it’s time for us to say goodbye.
The Hest Bank is listed as available for a 'management partnership' on the Punch website.
In a statement to Beyond Radio, a Punch Pubs & Co spokesperson said: "We can confirm that our Management Partners at The Hest Bank pub are in the process of leaving the business.
‘’While it would be inappropriate to comment on the details of our discussions, we are working together to achieve an amicable conclusion.
‘’Our priority is the future success of the pub, maintaining its important role within the local community and ensuring it continues to welcome guests for many years to come."
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