A fundraising campaign has been launched to enable a community buyout of an Alston Moor pub.
The Miners Arms, which served Nenthead for generations — first opening its doors nearly 200 years ago — closed in 2020 and is now up for sale.
A justgiving page has been established to raise £3,000 for initial project costs, such as registering as a Community Benefit Society and setting up a share offer.
“When we asked local people whether we should save our pub, the response was an overwhelming ‘yes’,” said Simon Walker, chair of the newly formed Miners Arms Community Association (MACA).
“The Miners Arms was a favourite of the village and a huge part of our local community. We want to see it open again.
“It won’t be easy, but with the right support and the dedication of this community I believe we can reopen The Miners Arms together,” said Simon.
Research into the possibility of a community buyout has been carried out, with meetings with other successful community pubs, and the support being sought of The Plunkett Foundation — a charity which supports community businesses.
Mr Walker added: “There is a long way to go, and we are counting not just on the residents, but all those that visit our beautiful village to come together to restore this community asset.”
A spokesman said: “A community buyout requires significant investment. It is hoped that community fundraising activities will raise a significant portion of the funds required, and there are options for grant funding being explored by MACA.
“The intention is to form a Community Benefit Society and issue a share offer scheme, where anyone can purchase shares in the Miners Arms, in exchange they become a member of the Community Benefit Society and have a say in how the pub is run in the future.”
