The Covid-19 pandemic has adversely affected many businesses but in particular hospitality with many pubs unlikely to open later this year.  Conversely supermarkets have in fact thrived during this time.

The Blacksmith's Forge in Dalkeith is very much a hub of the community as a place where people can meet over a coffee, have an evening meal or just enjoy a few drinks with friends. It is also important as it is the only pub in the area that sells real ale and in 2020 received a Best Bar None Award.

Lidl own the building and we understand that Wetherspoon have offered to buy the building. Based on current information Lidl have refused to sell the property leading to Wetherspoon deciding not to renew the lease.

This means that The Blacksmith's Forge will be closed permanently and this will be a great loss to our community at a time when it could benefit people the most.

Lidl's company website states that their aim is to contribute positively to local communities. On the Wetherspoon website it states that their pubs often have a positive impact on the local area.

We hope by raising awareness and obtaining as many signatures as possible we can convince Lidl and JD Wetherspoon how important this pub is to the community and to work together to resolve the issue.