MORE than a hundred residents rallied together in a bid to save a 500-year-old pub.

Residents in Cleeve Prior are trying to buy The Kings Arms - a pub that has remained empty since it went up for sale last year.

The pub, a staple in the community since it opened in 1542, is at risk of permanent closure.

It has led many residents to try to raise funds to reopen it as a community pub.

On Saturday (February 10), just over a hundred residents gathered outside the watering hole to promote their attempt to buy the pub and gather more pledges and donations.

They were joined by Mid-Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston, who also raised a glass for the pub.

Evesham Journal: Residents with Nigel Huddleston. Residents with Nigel Huddleston. (Image: Sarah Gallucci)Mr Huddleston said: "I have frequented the pub myself and know how important it is to the local community.

"The very best way to protect the future of this beautiful grade two listed pub is for it to be community-owned and run on a not-for-profit basis."

The pub opened the same year that Mary Queen of Scots was born and Catherine Howard was executed.

However, it was forced to close in January 2023 when its previous owners struggled with rising costs and post-pandemic challenges.

The open day allowed residents to display their revamping plans for the pub's barn, car park, beer garden, bar area, restaurant and 4-bedroom accommodation.

If enough is raised, residents will purchase the pub through a community share scheme where people can invest in parts of the venue.

Overall, £450,000 will be needed to purchase and open the pub.

The total pledged so far is 110,000 pounds, but it is hoped that number will rise in the next week because of the event.

There is also a donation website running on Crowdfunder that has raised £2,296.

Wychavon UK Shared Prosperity Fund has also awarded a grant of £50,000 to go towards renovations, but more grants have been applied for.

Brian Williams, Chair of the Kings Arms Steering Group, said: "It was fantastic to have Nigel lend his support to our mission to save this historic building and vital part of our community.

"Many people rely on the pub as a social support hub and without it, our village will lose its beating heart."