Jodie Kidd on why her Sussex pub is still closed

The Sussex model runs the Half Moon pub in Kirdford, near Billingshurst.

Writing in a column for the Sun, the 41-year-old said: "While the Half Moon pub in West Sussex, that I co-own, provided a food and wine delivery service during lockdown, we have not yet unlocked the doors to let in customers.

"It is heartbreaking to go into this beautiful pub on my weekly check to find it silent, devoid of the laughter, conversations and the celebrations that normally fill its beamed rooms.

The Half Moon Inn in Sussex is co-owned by Jodie Kidd

"Seeing the grass grow where people should be raising a glass and gleefully saying “cheers” is unbearable.

"There is no doubt, though, that we are going to welcome back our loyal locals very soon.

"We can’t allow this virus to kill off our pubs, which are at the heart of so many communities.

"This is a war for survival, the gloves are off and we must do everything in our power to keep our locals alive while also keeping the nation safe."

SEE ALSO:

• Jodie Kidd says it is a tough time for pubs
• Sussex pub owner Jodi Kidd says: 'I have millions of regrets but I don’t dwell on them'
• Jodie Kidd says The Half Moon pub in Sussex saved sanity​

Jodie previously praised landlords up and down the country for their creativity during the lockdown.

She said: “The great thing is people are really thinking outside the box.

"We have started doing takeaway services and I have seen others sites have turned into farm shops and places you can go and do click and collect, and get farm produce from.

“It’s a time when we are going to have to think differently.

Jodie Kidd in the pub

"These are really unprecedented times for everybody and it’s tough, but there are ways you can keep certain members of staff going by just being creative.”

The Half Moon has managed to bring three staff members back in to man its newly opened takeaway service.

• The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund