BUSINESS owners in Horsley want people to know “we’re still here” as the on-going closure of a major road has affected trade in the village.

Owners of the Hog pub, Caroline and Greg Saturley, are concerned about the loss of trade due to the Horsley Hill road closure.

Caroline said: “Some days are good, some not.

“Compared to last year, some weeks we’re down 20 per cent, but at worst it’s been down 50 per cent.

“We just want people to know that we’re still here, serving up great locally produced food and drinks.”

General manager Daniel Andrews said: “We’ve had people who made reservations and then cancelled because they couldn’t get to us, and that’s really disappointing.

“We have a lot to offer and it’s locally sourced.”

“We have the Horsley sausage, we get all of our cheese from Whey More in Nailsworth and meat from Woodchester.”

Other businesses affected include the village shop, which is run by volunteers.

Norman Kay, a volunteer in the shop, is not as worried but understands the concerns of the Hog.

“Thanks to our loyal customer we have not seen much adverse effect, but we do have to make an extra effort to make the shop even more attractive.”

As a way for the community to come together, a street party has been organised to celebrate the village and its people.

The Horsley Road Closure Street Party will take place on Sunday and attendees will be able to enjoy live music, face painting, gazebos, cream teas and morris dancers.

It will be right next to the road closure and will be from 2pm until 6pm, then continuing on in The Hog.

Caroline said: “It’s typical Horsley, don’t worry let’s have a party.”

The road closed on July 31 and won’t reopen until November 10, a diversion is in place but it has caused some motorists to opt for a different route which avoids Horsley.

Cllr Vernon Smith, GCC cabinet member for highways, said: “We’ve invested over £500,000 into repairing the Horsley landslip but have had to make sure we get it right.

“With landslips it takes time to investigate them and determine the right solution. In this case, the whole road needed to be re-built so it wasn’t possible or safe to keep it open.

“Work hasn’t been an easy task as the ground conditions have been particularly difficult, however it’ll make a massive difference to the local community when its reopened.

“I’d like to thank people for their continued patience whilst we finish off these much needed works.”

A County Council spokesman added: "The official diversion route is signposted and 11 miles long, taking approx 15 minutes to drive.

"We have to legally advertise like for like alternative routes, but local people will likely know other ways through."