FOOD and drink prices at the Coal Orchard pub, in Bridge Street, Taunton, are being cut by 7.5 per cent next Wednesday.

Owner Wetherspoon is running the promotion to highlight the benefit of a VAT reduction in the hospitality industry.

Wining and dining in pubs is currently subject to 20 per cent VAT, whereas supermarkets benefit from a zero rate on all food.

Coal Orchard manager Sharon Queen said: "We are proud to support the campaign to reduce the level of VAT within the pub industry.

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

"We are keen to highlight the amount customers could 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."