As heating bills continue to rise more people are affected by the cost of living crisis. One pub in Blaenau Ffestiniog, is offering its support to the local community during this time.
The Y Meirion has posted to its Facebook group that the pub will be open, with the heating on, and people do not have to buy anything to stay in the warm. Pub owner, John Ferguson, said that he would be heating the pub regardless of if people are there or not, so there is no need to buy anything.
Posting to the Facebook group, he said people are "more than welcome" to sit in the pub. He said: "Worried about heating bills? We will have the heating on in the pub on cold days, you are more than welcome to come sit in the pub when space is available, you don't have to buy anything. I can't believe I'm having to even write this post but with the way things are I believe it's necessary."
John advised that Mondays and Tuesdays are normally the quietest days for the pub, so the best days to go in. He also added that he has been doing this for five years and told people not to be shy. You can keep up to date with the latest What's On news by signing up to the newsletter here.
He said: "If you are suffering, please pop in and get warm, Mondays and Tuesdays are usually the quietest so plenty of free seats. It costs me the same whether the pub is full or empty so makes no difference to me. This is our 5th year doing this so don't be shy."
John spoke to WalesOnline about the touching reason why he decided to open up the pub, as he explained it was not just about the cost of living crisis but also to prevent people being lonely. He said: "We are a small strong community here in Snowdonia, we look after each other and during these hard financial times it's important we stick together. By opening up the pub as a warm hub not only will it help people cut their own bills down it can reduce loneliness for individuals as well."
"We have the TV on, we can make them a cuppa, have a chat, and keep warm together. It's unfortunate we need this in today's world but with rising costs is important nobody is left out in the cold."
Many people commented on the post, thanking John for his generosity. One said: "John you are such a caring man. So glad you are part of the Blaenau family." and another added: "A true community pub. Well done John. Others would do well to follow you. Diolch." A third said: "Very kind and thoughtful of you John" followed by a red love heart emoji.
TV wildlife presenter Iolo Williams also supported the pub. He re-tweeted a screenshot of the post and said: "Da iawn. Well done ‘Y Meirion’, but it’s 2022, not 1822. You shouldn’t have to do this. Time for change."
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