Campaign to protect village pub is launched by residents

The Three Horseshoes pub, in Wistow. Picture: GOOGLE. (Image: Archant)

The organisers of a campaign to save a village pub from possible closure are calling for the community to get behind the bid.

The Keep Wistow Flowing steering group was set up in August by a small group of residents concerned that the village’s only pub – The Three Horseshoes – could be at risk of closure and redevelopment into housing.

The group and villagers backing the campaign have moved quickly since and, together with Wistow Parish Council, have applied to register the Grade II-listed building as an asset of community value, which would protect it from change of use or redevelopment for a limited period.

Campaigners expect to hear whether their bid has been successful next month, after which they will explore the possibility of purchasing the property for the village.

Bryan Layman, chairman of the Keep Wistow Flowing steering group, said: “There is an overwhelming desire, drive and support to keep the pub open so it can serve the village and local communities for years to come. If the pub were to close permanently or undergo change of use, there would be a significant loss of community spirit and cohesion.

“We are determined that the doors of The Three Horseshoes will re-open again under new ownership and be more than just a public house. Our vision is that it should be a ‘public home’ where people can visit and feel comfortable.”

More than 220 surveys were distributed around the village and Mr Layman said more than 120 had been returned, with “overwhelming support” shown for the campaign’s bid to keep the pub open.

A public meeting was held in Wistow Village Hall last Thursday and about 100 people turned out to hear more about what is planned.

Mr Layman said he wanted to keep the momentum of the campaign going and is urging anyone interested in supporting the campaign’s efforts to get in contact.

He added: “We want The Three Horseshoes to remain a proper pub plus it will become a go to hub for the community and will certainly be an asset to our community.”

To find out more about the campaign, log on to http://keepwistowflowing.pub or search for Keep Wistow Flowing on Facebook. You can also e-mail info@keepwistowflowing.pub.