Shropshire pub's survival a step closer as 'ecstatic' group confirm deal in place
A Shropshire pub is set to be saved thanks to an incredible campaign by a community group.
The Horse and Jockey in Northwood, in the north of the county, closed last year after becoming a victim of the spike in energy prices and cost-of-living challenges.
But a group called Friends of the Horse and Jockey was formed to look at ways of saving the ailing pub and it has now been confirmed that an agreement has been reached in principle to buy the pub.
The news came days after the group revealed it had been given approval for its application for funding from the Community Ownership Fund, with a £240,000 grant in place.
Spokesperson Louise Paton said the group was 'ecstatic' at news their offer had been accepted in principle.
"There's still a way to go until we pull our first pint but we are all committed to making this work," she said. "It's really positive news and we are so grateful for the support we have received."
Members of the public and businesses were asked to pledge money to own a stake in the pub through a share offer with the plan to buy and create a community-owned pub for Northwood, and the surrounding areas, including Newtown, Whixall and Bettisfield.
And the group received an an incredible response to the plan which meant there was a ‘real chance’ to save the pub.
"This is now a landmark moment and we have to say a big thank you to the vendors and Halls for being so community-minded," Louise said.
"And we also need to remember the Levelling Up fund and the people looking at that application. They have seen something of worth and value in it and we are really grateful for the support from the government.
"We have received a grant of £240,000 which is a huge investment in a small community and we couldn't have done it without them."
With the sale now a 'step closer', Louise said: "We would love to see it open by October, or certainly by Christmas, so we can have a proper celebration with people from the surrounding communities. It would be the best Christmas present the community could have.
"We are taking it a step at a time still, of course, but our eyes are on the prize and we will be offering future share opportunities. It would be amazing to have as many people on board as possible and hopefully some more local business might want to come and help in some way too. It would all be gratefully received."
You can find out more about the group at https://www.horseandjockeynorthwood.co.uk/
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