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Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood defends wife against 'unforgivable' criticism over pub closure
The Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood has hit out at the 'vindictiveness' of locals after his wife's family were granted permission to turn the Chequers Inn into a house
She has reportedly faced backlash after being granted permission by Ashford Borough Council's planning committee to transform the 600 year old property into a residence. The application, lodged in January, was met with resistance from locals and Smarden Parish Council who were concerned that the loss of the pub, which is at the "heart of the village", would "conflict with the aims of promoting the economy", according to planning documents. Melissa told the meeting her family planned to close the Grade II-Listed pub by the end of August due to declining trade and because it is no longer a viable business.
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