PUBS have been in the news recently, because a number are being eyed up by supermarket giants as potential mini-mart sites.

The Saddle Inn, in Fulford, looks set to become a Co-op store, the future of the Punch Bowl in The Groves is in doubt and last orders were called for the last time yesterday at the Corner House in Burton Stone Lane, which will soon become a Tesco.

It’s a sign of the times.

People go out less and they shop in a different way.

Large supermarkets are increasingly abandoned in favour of small outlets.

Pubs offer both the perfect size and the perfect location.

But we are in danger of losing many community hubs, which is why we launched our Be Vocal For Your Local campaign.

We’re not saying all pubs should be saved.

But we think residents who use them should be given a democratic say on their future.