I manage a pub and along with other luxuries we have been the first to suffer.
Between the government and supermarkets our trade is on its knees! Supermarkets didn't even bat an eyelid at the budget. Everything we sell has increased even crisps!!!
People forget about ancillery trades too taxi's, musicians, window cleaners. Pubs are closing at a rate of 4 a day.
Doesn't matter who you are its indisciminate, young or old are being affected. Our staple trade has always been the grey pound. They are being hit hard too.

So called experts say that if we can tough out this year it'll be ok but its not like theres a big switch flicked on jan 1st 2009 and we can all start spending again!!

I had 3 months out of work when a job offer fell through and it took me at least 18 months to recover. Just my 5 penneth!