Punch calls for debt deal support

Executive chairman Stephen Billingham said the business, which has around 4,000 leased and tenanted pubs, would face uncertainty if the plans are not accepted at a vote on February 14.

It has already been rejected by several groups of bondholders with blocking stakes, who are pressing for talks to be reopened.

But Mr Billingham said that the company had spent 14 months trying to find a solution “to accommodate all of the conflicting views”.

He said: “The next few days will be some of the most important in the company’s history. Everyone has something to gain by voting for the proposal.

“Failure to effect a restructuring will lead to a default in the securitisation, which is expected to have a material negative impact on the business.

“Punch has a very good underlying business with a positive future and its assets provide a focal point for 4,000 communities across the UK.

“Just as Punch’s operational performance is turning the corner, the last thing the business needs is for continued uncertainty.”

The group last month published its final proposal to restructure debt and avoid a default but bondholders who oppose the deal are thought to believe it has been skewed in the interest of Punch’s shareholders.

However Mr Billingham told the Daily Telegraph there would be a “mess” if it were not passed, adding: “I have real concerns that nobody has an alternative out there that is realistic or sensible.”