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Petition to Oppose the Market Tavern Becoming a Managed House Under Punch Taverns

We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the decision to convert the Market Tavern into a managed house operated by Punch Taverns.

After a verbal agreement indicating the lease would be renewed for a further five years, Chris Humes and his son have now been informed that this will not go ahead. Instead, Punch Taverns intends to take back the Market Tavern after 10 successful years under the Humes family’s leadership.

During this decade, Chris and his team have transformed the Market Tavern into one of the top ten places to eat in Northumberland on TripAdvisor. It has become not only a thriving restaurant, but also a welcoming hub at the heart of the Alnwick community.

This decision affects far more than the Humes family. It threatens the livelihoods of the loyal staff whose warmth and dedication shape the Market Tavern’s unique atmosphere. It also impacts local tourism, as countless visitors return year after year specifically because of the Tavern’s outstanding food, service, and character. Local hotels and B&B owners have expressed deep concern, noting that many of their guests consistently praise the Market Tavern and often choose to revisit Alnwick because of it.

For the Humes family, the Market Tavern is more than a business—it is their home. For the community, it is a cherished gathering place built on tradition, great food, live music, and genuine hospitality. Many residents have voiced their disappointment and frustration at the prospect of losing an independent, community-centred venue to yet another corporate chain model.

We urge Punch Taverns to reconsider their decision and to honour the value the Market Tavern brings to Alnwick—

Please sign to show your support for keeping the Market Tavern in the hands of the Humes family and preserving the soul of our community.