PUB-goers across Exmoor and West Somerset have been warned their local will be forced to raise the price of a pint or to close under Government tax proposals.

Business rates relief is being cut for hospitality venues, which Exmoor campaigner James Wright said would add £189,154 to bills for pubs across the Tiverton and Minehead constituency.

Mr Wright, who is the Conservative Rural Forum regional chairman, said it would put jobs, communities, and livelihoods at risk.

He has launched an online petition calling on the Government to reverse the tax increase.

Mr Wright said: “I love my local pub, and I know many others do, too.

“We need to stand up for our pubs before it is too late.”