PUBS, bars and restaurants have seen their annual bills surge 81 per cent over the past year, a survey published today reveals as firms call on the government for support.

Just 29 per cent of hospitality businesses are optimistic about the next 12 months after swallowing mammoth energy price increases, as well as more expensive food and wage bills, according to industry bodies.

Business owners told the the British Institute of Innkeeping, UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Association and Hospitality Ulster that they are particularly concerned about energy costs, with 86 per cent of firms saying these were a worry.