TWO Wyre Forest pubs are set to cut the price of its food and drink for one day this month, to demonstrate the benefits of VAT reduction.

The Penny Black, in Bull Ring, Kidderminster, and the George Hotel, in Load Street, Bewdley, are taking part in Tax Equality Day on September 20, a nationwide campaign against the 20 per cent VAT rate on food and drink, that all pubs are currently subject to.

Bosses at Wetherspoons, which run the two branches, are calling for the rate to be reduced so that they can sell alcohol at a discounted price.

All food and drink will be marked down by 7.5 per cent on Wednesday, September 20.

Richard Pugh, manager of the George Hotel, said: "We are proud to support the campaign to reduce the level of VAT within the pub industry.

"Customers coming to the pubs on September 20, will find the price of their food and drink is lower than normal.

"We are keen to highlight the amount customers would save if VAT in pubs was lowered permanently. 

"So, for example, the total price of a meal and drinks for an individual would be reduced from £10 to £9.25 on Tax Equality Day.

"A reduction in the level of VAT on a long-term basis will generate growth and create jobs in the important leisure and hospitality sector and help the high street of which pubs are an integral part."