A major pub company has responded to a trade union's claims that a number of Isle of Wight venues are 'at risk' of closure.

Stonegate Group insists its business remains 'very resilient' despite challenges within the industry.

Last week, GMB Union warned plans to refinance debts, made by Stonegate's parent company, TDR Capital, could lead to 'crippling' repayments.

On the Island, Stonegate runs 20 pubs and nightclubs, including Newport's Fever & Boutique, The Hogshead and Slug and Lettuce. TDR Capital also owns Asda.

Read more: Popular Isle of Wight pubs at risk of closure GMB Union warns

Justin Bowden, GMB Southern Regional Secretary, said: “TDR Capital must be accountable to local people and they have a duty to safeguard the 650 local pubs which are vital community assets.

“We fear for the future of our local supermarkets and pubs in the hands of their private equity owners."

In response, Stonegate has said it is "very confident" in its ability to refinance and said the company is "well-placed" for the future.

A statement reads: "We continue to invest in our pubs and our people, in particular supporting local pubs which play such a key role in their communities.

"Our pub business remains very resilient despite the challenges our industry faces, with good like-for-like sales growth across the group.

"Following our recent successful financing announced in December as well as strong recent trading, we are well placed to deliver on our longer term objectives and we are very confident in our ability to re-finance at the appropriate time.”