The Old George pub on Botley Road in Fair Oak was the victim of a break-in early on Friday morning, around 4:30am, when two intruders are believed to have entered the premises while the pub was closed. Despite the incident, the pub resumed normal operations just hours later.
Investigation Launched, No Theft Reported
While Hampshire Constabulary has confirmed that nothing was stolen from the popular pub, they have opened an investigation into the break-in, which occurred between 4:30am and 5:10am on Friday, May 23.
A spokesperson from the police said, “We are investigating after we received a report of a break-in at this address. It has been reported that nothing was stolen from the address.”
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting the reference number 44250224620.
Pub Quickly Secures Property
In a Facebook post the day after the break-in, the Old George expressed its gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community.
The post thanked customers and reassured them that the pub was up and running as normal, stating, “Just wanted to say a huge thank you to the heartwarming and overwhelming support you have all shown to us since our unexpected guests this morning!”
The pub’s maintenance team worked throughout the day to reinforce the security of the premises, adding extra protection with double deadbolts on all doors.
Additionally, the pub thanked its operations manager, Ben, for his quick response in the early hours and his ongoing work with the police.
Acknowledging the Strain on Local Pubs
Councillor Nicholas Couldrey expressed his concern over the pressures faced by pubs like the Old George, especially with rising costs.
He highlighted how important pubs are to the local community, saying, “They are a central part in the community and we really don’t want to see them go.”
Since the break-in, the Old George has shown its support for a petition aimed at reviewing government support for pubs in the UK.
The petition calls for a review of taxation and regulation to help prevent further closures of pubs, which have been struggling with rising costs and financial pressures.
Pub Supports Petition to Save Local Pubs
In a further show of support for the industry, the Old George shared a link to the petition on social media.
The pub highlighted the loss of over 7,000 pubs in the last decade and the urgent need for government intervention. “Rising costs, unfair tax burdens, and lack of real help are pushing our industry to the brink,” the post said.
The petition urges Parliament to review and reform the taxation and regulation of UK pubs to ensure their continued operation and prevent more closures.
