The Britons Protection launches campaign to save its future and they ‘need your help’

The owners of The Britons Protection have launched a petition in a desperate bid to save the future of the historic pub.

The Britons Protection, which has so far stood the test of time since its opening in the late 1700s, is facing the threat of new ownership thanks to Heineken’s Star Pubs wanting to take back control of the building.

As it stands, the pub is currently run as ‘market rent only’, meaning that while rent is paid to the landlord (Star Pubs), alcohol can be sourced independently.

This has enabled The Britons Protection to acquire its 360-strong whisky collection, a feature the pub has become famous for over the years.

@manchesterpubpioneer / Instagram

However, Star Pubs have opted to take the establishment back into their managed house portfolio, meaning that the current landlord, Mark West, needs to appeal for a renewal of the lease to stop them from taking the pub back.

In a social media post, West and owner Allan Hudd warned that if Star Pubs reclaim the Britons ‘it will not be the same Manchester institution as you know it’.

Read More: Historic Manchester pub The Britons Protection appeals for help as future hangs in balance

The statement went on to claim that Heineken ‘does not have the portfolio to support the offering that makes this pub unique’, or the ties to community that have been built over the years.

The owner went on to explain that, while he has the support of a number of local institutions such as CAMRA, the Manchester Whisky Club and The Peterloo Society, they need ‘every patron to rally behind us and keep the Britons the pub we know and love.’

So, they have since launched a petition to help secure the pub’s future.

@thebritonsprotection / Instagram

The change.org petition’s description reads: “The pub is a must visit site for their specialist whisky collection, boasting over 300 bottles; including their own unique offering of specially selected single barrel Jack Daniels, as well 8 rotating locally sourced cask ales on draught.

“The landlord Allan Hudd and Owner Mark West have put 10 years of passion into maintaining what this Great British pub is all about and if lost it will fall into the abyss of generic gastro pub white washing that has befell so many others.

“Help us keep The Britons as it should be – steeped in local heritage, serving local beers and raising great whisky to all who enter.”

At the time of writing, the petition has had 2,117 signatures. For more information and to sign yourself, click here.