Jodie Kidd's pub forced to shut down after staff subjected to 'verbal and physical' abuse

Jodie Kidd's pub, The Half Moon, has temporarily closed after staff complained about being subjected to physical and verbal abuse at the establishment. The 46-year-old model has shut the West Sussex pub's doors for a couple of days, with the pub releasing a statement on their Instagram page.

Along with cosy autumn snaps of the pub, they said: "We’ve worked hard to create more than just a pub — we’ve built a home. A place for people to come together, enjoy good times, and make memories. While we know we won’t be to everyone’s taste, it saddens us that in recent weeks we as a team have faced abuse — both verbal and physical.

"We’d like to remind everyone that behind The Half Moon is a team of people who care deeply about what we do. We are human. Independent businesses like ours work tirelessly, 7 days a week, driven by passion, love, and integrity to give our best. All we ask in return is respect."

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The statement added: "If you ever feel the need to complain, please do so in a calm, constructive, and polite way — we’re always open to feedback that helps us improve.

"Let’s continue to make The Half Moon a place where kindness, community, and good memories shine the brightest."

Customers immediately rushed to share their support for the pub, with one patron writing: "That’s really sad to read. We love you guys," and another posting: "Literally the most wonderful place, looking forward to seeing you again on Friday night if not before!"

One person commented: "That’s awful to hear that! You are all amazing! The best pub you will ever find!"

In a follow-up post, the pub said: "Our core team will be taking a well-deserved short break this week.

"As many of you know, the work never truly stops behind the scenes, so taking some time to rest and recharge is essential.

"We will be closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this week, and will reopen on Thursday 25th September at 12 Noon as normal. Can’t wait to welcome you all this weekend!!"

The Half Moon pub in Kirdford is a 15th-century Grade II listed pub and Jodie purchased the establishment in 2017.

In 2021, Jodie revealed the pub was struggling after three Covid lockdowns. Speaking to Sussex Live, she said: "When we got the pub in 2017 I started to really understand just how tough it is, how the taxes are so extraordinarily high and how the margins you make are really, really tiny.

"Things were tough then, never mind now with a pandemic and three lockdowns, yet still many don't realise just how bad it really is."

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