September 16, 2008

Probably the last group of people you’d expect to see battling to save our rural pubs are road safety group GEM.  GEM Motoring Assist, formerly known as the Guild of Experienced Motorists, says country public houses and those in small towns and villages provide a vital role in offering a real alternative to the soul-less and expensive motorway services that often provide the only place to take a break mid journey.

The campaign has been started by the real ale connoisseurs CAMRA, but has seen the baton taken on by GEM.  Chief Executive of GEM David Williams argues: “For centuries, since the days of religious pilgrims and later the romantic stage coach, hostelries have offered a welcoming refuge for weary travellers. We are now losing that tradition as public houses close in their hundreds and our choice of stopping places to ‘water the horses and take sustenance’ is being severely restricted.

“This has a knock on effect as drivers choose not to take an essential break (which should happen for every two hours on the road) and press on for home when tired and losing concentration.

“There was a time when you could drive along a motorway or trunk road and look for a church steeple in the distance and be fairly certain that a welcoming inn would be nestled alongside the place of worship.”

Stating that public houses are now a lot more than merely sources of alcohol, as GEM condemns drinking and driving. David adds: “Pubs now serve good tea and coffee and a vast selection of soft drinks. They are comfortable places to relax, offer value food and have clean toilet facilities.”

With driver fatigue thought to be responsible for one fifth of all road accidents and up to 300 deaths a year having a regular break is an essential part of driving.  There are few places more comfortable than a rural pub and many serve excellent food so why not drive past the soul-less conglomerate and treat yourself to a local pub, with a great atmosphere and top food you don’t need to have a drink to enjoy the pub and the more people stop there the more likely they are to stay in business.

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