RESIDENTS joined together to protest the closing of their local pub.

The Ivy Inn, in North Littleton recently closed down leaving the village without a pub.

One resident, Sarah Gravestock accused the pub's owner of making a decision 'without any thought or consideration' to its residents.

She said: "My husband and I have lived here eight years and the last tenants of The Ivy Pub made a huge impact on our village in the short time they were here and it is too bad that their innovative ideas did not sit well with he

directors of Enterprise Inns.

"Not only had they improved the facility but they also produced home-cooked food on any given night, organised quiz nights, classic car evenings in the summer and numerous other events.

"All of which were much appreciated by the residents of The Littletons, particularly those within North

Littleton.

"Other pubs in the area are the Fish & Anchor which is not within reasonable walking distance and The

Kings Arms in Cleeve Prior, again not within reasonable walking distance."

Mrs Gravestock added that the village now has no public transport facility, no village shop or a pub.

Mrs Gravestock said that the reason had been an increase in rent, but this was denied by Paul Vavasour, regional manager for Ei Publican Partnerships (formerly known as Enterprise Inns) , who own the pub.

He said: "The publican's reason for leaving are private and confidential and I cannot share the detail but I can confirm that the reason was not associated with a rent increase."

A spokesperson from Ei Publican Partnerships said: "We can confirm that the Ivy Inn, North Littleton is currently closed due to the publican’s decision to cease trading and leave.

"As part of our on-going business, we do from time to time identify a pub that may no longer have a long-term future in our estate.

"After careful consideration, the decision has been made to sell the freehold of The Ivy Inn and the pub is currently being openly marketed. Anyone interested in the opportunity to purchase this site should contact our agents, Sidney Phillips & Co.”