Chatting to a bloke recently who made a valid point that it is in the Establishment's interest each time a pub shuts down. It means one less place where the great unwashed can congregate and debate the shortcomings of the ruling classes.
He had a point. Think about the last time there was a local issue which required debate; a proposed new road, mobile telephone mast etc. If enough people feel strongly about it, where do you arrange a meeting???
Cant beet a peoper butchers though sadly often for a treat. But at least there thick bacon is thick an doesnt shrivel in the pan when all the injected water evaporates. Englands in Pemberton (as I am exiled to Wihan these days). Sad about pubs too but Delph in Orrell is fab or the Foot in Billinge both cracking real ale but maybe due to food too. Mind you the Poacher in Wigan Winstanley has great people and makes the most of food but their keeping of ale leaves a lot to be desired.