Albury pub manager's dispute escalates

JOHN BISSET/FAIRFAX NZ

THANK YOU: Albury Tavern's managers Tamara Mendez and her father, Jorge, are refusing to leave the pub after a dispute with the owner. A community petition in support of them staying now has 210 signatures.

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Albury residents are expected to turn out in support of their local pub's managers, who have been given until today to leave or risk being trespassed.

A stoush has been brewing over the past few months between Tamara Mendez and her father, Jorge, and the Albury Tavern's owner, Pascal Brown, over rent.

Mr Brown recruited a new publican, Paul Anning, who was due to take over in December, but Mr Anning said yesterday he was no longer involved.

The Mendezes were given until today to leave, but Miss Mendez said they were not going anywhere.

Mr Brown or a representative is understood to be visiting today, and residents are expected to turn up to show their support.

"The landlord is displaying deaf ears to our claims and, of course, those of the community," Miss Mendez said.

"It is very difficult to obtain legal information that assists us and resolves the problem. The situation is not getting any better for us."

A community petition started by Albury resident Penny Campbell is still circulating and Miss Mendez said they now had 210 signatures.

Mrs Campbell said she did not know how many residents would be there.

- © Fairfax NZ News