Tony Baynes has run The Links in St Annes for the last six years.

Despite trade remaining steady, mounting bills and costs could force Mr Baynes to close the doors of his popular community pub.

Last month's rise in beer prices, plus massive hikes in utility bills, have seen the licensee struggle to make ends meet.

But a defiant Mr Baynes told The Gazette he would do everything in his power to keep the Heeley Road pub open for business.

The 53-year-old said: "It's possible that I might have to close, but I'm trying my best to keep the place open.

"Trying to make ends meet is very tough and I don't want to end up becoming yet another statistic."

More than 50 pubs close in the UK every week with supermarkets selling cheap booze and the impact of the 2007 nationwide smoking ban seen as two of the main factors behind the demise.

The Links opened in 1956, but despite its popularity it has not been immune to the tough times faced by many in the licensed trade.

FOR MORE ON THIS STORY SEE THURSDAY'S GAZETTE