Alma Tavern and Paul Pry in Worcester talk about the threat the cost of living could be for their businesses

Jon Dean, who co-owns Alma Tavern on Droitwich Road with his partner Will Bradley, said he's noticed a change in the way his customers spend money as the cost of living continues to increase. 

Mr  Dean,51, said: "In the winter months, people may turn to hospitality because it is lit and heated and it's cheaper than putting on their own heating and we are more than happy for people to come here and do that. 

READ MORE: Alma Tavern: Take a look inside the wholesome family pub

Alma Tavern: Jon Dean holding a photo of what the pub looked like in the 1900s (Image: NQ)

"In the winter months, pubs might take away the burden.

"We've seen a change in our customer base. People who would have had three/four meals with us a week are now cutting down to two. 

"Customers are ordering fewer pints as they would've before. 

Alma Tavern (Image: Newsquest)

"For a lot of people, going out for a meal and a drink in a pub would be seen as a luxury.

"It comes down to 'will they eat or heat' because people don't have a bottomless pit of money.

ALL SMILES: Co-owner of Alma Tavern Will Bradley

"As a business, we try to absorb a lot of the extra cost we want the people who have supported us to continue to support us."

Paul Pry on The Butts

Alex Pope and his partner Amy and pet Alfie at Paul Pry (Image: Newsquest)

Alex Pope, who owns the Paul Pry with his family on The Butts in Worcester, said: "the cost of living is worrying, we've had our first bill come through and it was sobering, which is not a good thing for a pub landlord. 

READ MORE: Look inside 200-year-old pub which is one of best in city according to reviews

Paul Pry is rated as one of Worcester's best pubs and Mr Pope added: "We want to continue to offer really good value for money and give people a reason to keep coming to us.

Alex Pope and Alfie at Paul Pry (Image: NQ)

"As the British public we need to have a drink to socialise, so there will always be a place for the pub. 

Alfie welcoming guests into Paul Pry

"However people who might have come to us three or four times a week, are now coming once a week. 

"Pubs are a good form of therapy, rather than sitting alone at home, you can come to the pub and take a break from your worries."