There's definitely a place for some proper boozers but the sad reality is that most people do drink at home and only venture out for a "treat" which includes food. Antic has proven time and again that the right balance can be struck between gastro and boozer. Like it or not SE23 and it's clients have changed. More people are likely to be put off by a sky sports sign and traditional decor than be drawn in. You lament the change of the clock house yet it has gone from being pretty quiet at the weekend to needing a booking the day before if you want to eat. I'm not saying this is good or bad, but pubs need to provide the balance of services the community demands.

I only went in the Forest Hill Hotel once before it shut because of being relatively new to the area but sure don't remember it being lovely. The HO had the balance so close to right 3 years ago, but mismanagement sealed its fate. It is 100% worth saving. That the FHH was not saved is a shame but it should not be used as a reason or example of why not to save the HO, which in its own right is a grand Victorian building that would require minimal expenditure to make great again.