Locals launch pub rescue bid

Locals in the north-west of England have joined together in a bid to buy and reopen a historic pub, which closed last year.

The community share offer, which has been launched with support from the Co-operative Enterprise Hub, is hoping to raise money in order to bring the Crown Inn in Blencowe, near Penrith, back to life.

The pub dates back to the mid-18th century and is registered as a community asset. Organisers are hoping to attract hundreds of co-owners to invest a minimum of £250 to join the newly formed co-operative society, known as Blencowe Community Pub Limited.

Blencowe Community Pub Ltd spokesman Greg Wilson told the Press Association: “It is absolutely incredible to see how a community has become united in a venture such as this and we are delighted with the response and pledges of support that we have received so far.

“We have a shared dream to save this popular pub which can offer so many benefits for residents, tourists and the local economy alike.

“People have a unique opportunity to co-own the Crown Inn and create a real community asset that promotes local ales and foods while hosting music, poetry, book and history nights.”

Michael Fairclough, the Co-operative’s head of community and co-operative investment, said: “Co-operation can be key to safeguarding much-loved local assets and, by working together, communities can be a powerful catalyst for change capable of overcoming many of the challenges facing today’s society, environment and economy.”