The Chief Executive of St Austell Brewery pubs, including The Chain Locker in Falmouth, has urged government support over a serious staffing shortage in the hospitality sector.

Chief Exec Kevin Georgel said in a statement that the national staff shortage is having a "big impact" on the company and is keen to find solutions.

In an article written recently by The i, the newspaper researched figures from UKHospitality that revealed a current vacancy rate across the sector of 9 percent, which suggests a shortage of around 188,000 workers.

Mr Georgel called it the pandemic the most challenging time in the company's 170-year history - the same for most if not all businesses.

Due to the shortages, St Austell Brewery Pubs have had to adapt operations, including shorter food service times, seating areas being out of use, and reduced opening hours in order to allow teams the time off to rest.

In a statement he continued:

"We're urging the government to acknowledge the staffing crisis and to help us find a solution. This is such a crucial time, as we come out of lockdown, and we want nothing more than to welcome all of you into our pubs, look after our teams, and play our part in the UK's economic recovery.

"Thank you all for your ongoing support as we move through these challenging times. Our team is working so hard, and we appreciate your patience, understanding, and kindness."

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