Now -more than ever - our great British pubs need to get people through their doors. The British Beer and Pub Association reports that more than 2,000 pubs have closed since the Chancellor increased beer tax in the 2008 Budget, resulting in 20,000 job losses over the last year. Nationally, pubs are closing at the rate of 36 a week.

With a little help from Matt Edwards, from the Yanwath Gate Inn near Penrith, and Richard English, from the Cavendish Arms, Cartmel, AWOL’s James Brown looks at some keys to survival.

Relief chef James New is off to Australia with more than £2,000 in his pocket, thanks to AWOL. He tells us how working with AWOL has made him more confident and independent.

One of the best places to source your ‘beef bits’ is Lakes Speciality Foods in Staveley, who offer a fantastic range of locally sourced meats.  They are currently sending out 8-ounce beef daubes, square cut ox cheek, and oxtail. If you’re not sure about a cut, ask – these boys really know their stuff.

Join Cumbria's biggest and best relief chef team. We have vacancies in the South, North and West Lakes. Lots of variety, straight shifts, good money: CALL US TODAY! You could be working next week. Try a new way of catering. Please note you need to be a time served, experienced chef to gain the most benefit.