TRADERS whose livelihoods remain under threat from a pub chain are vowing not to shy away from a fight to see their businesses continue.

The shopkeepers of The Arcade, in High Street, Uxbridge, thought they had won the day when an application by JD Wetherspoon to replace the units with a massive pub was refused by Hillingdon Council in April.

However, last week each received a letter from the council informing them of the decision by Wetherspoon to appeal to the Secretary of State.

Far from being down-heartened many are relishing another chance to demonstrate the value of their businesses and are already writing letters to this effect.

Kush Supeda, owner of Quick Stitch, said: "I was surprised they appealed as their plan was so half-baked it was not unexpected that the council would refuse it.

"Our futures have been in limbo while this application drags on so although having to fight an appeal is an added nusiance at least we will get a final decision this way.

"I'm quietly confident the inspector will back-up what the council said and uphold the refusal."

Ahmet Yenicikan, owner of Granny Satchwill's cafe, added: "The council gave a strong, strong reason for refusing last time, people don't want another pub here.

"The Arcade is finally starting to pick up again now, there is only one vacant shop and hopefully we will be allowed to stay in business."

Whetherspoons spokesman Eddie Gershon said: "We remain keen to see a pub on this site as we feel it will be a benefit to the town.

"As is the case with a number of appeals we have gone to the Secreatry of State to try to get the refusal by the council overturned.

"If we are successful we will be very happy, if not then we will have to reconsider our options."