August 17th 2024.
Paul Hollywood, a well-known baker and judge on the popular show Great British Bake Off, is not happy with the recent comments being made about his wife. Melissa Hollywood, who is 40 years old, recently made the decision to close their family's 600-year-old pub, Chequers Inn, in Kent. This decision was met with backlash from the locals, which Paul has described as 'vindictive' and 'unforgivable'.
Melissa and her family submitted a plan to turn the pub into a home earlier this year, as it was no longer a viable business. The family had previously put the pub up for sale in November 2020, but had no success in finding a buyer. At a local council meeting, Paul and Melissa spoke about their plans and were met with many upset locals.
Paul expressed his disappointment in the way the locals have reacted to their family's decision. He mentioned that the family did receive one offer from a buyer, but it was not realistic. He also stated that if the villagers wanted to buy the pub themselves, he would be fine with that. However, the pub is still set to close at the end of the month due to financial struggles.
After Melissa spoke out about the attacks they have faced from locals, one villager shared their upset about the pub's closure and stated that it would ruin the village. Melissa also mentioned in the council meeting that her 80-year-old father, who suffers from a 'life-threatening' heart condition, is working long hours each day to keep the pub running. Despite their efforts and investments, the pub is still running at a loss.
Their current plan is to turn the pub into a single-dwelling home, which would not require any physical changes. Paul and Melissa have invested over £80,000 into the pub, and Paul himself is estimated to be worth $15 million. However, the Smarden Parish Council argued that this decision would 'deprive' the village of a pub that has been a part of their community for over 600 years.
After a vote, the council decided to turn the pub into a residential property, with seven votes for and five against. Melissa and her family have until August to close the pub and several years to change the building's purpose. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures to share, you can get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing them or visiting their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you.
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