THE FIGHT to save Chalford's historic Old Neighbourhood has taken a major step forward with the launch of its community share offer this week.

The Chalford Hill Community Benefit Society (CBS) behind the campaign say they need to raise a minimum of £400,000 to make a serious offer to buy the pub from its current owner. 

Campaigners say that the community share initiative gives everyone the 'opportunity to become a part owner and help bring this vital social hub back to life'.

The much-loved Old Neighbourhood Inn at Chalford Hill closed unexpectedly over18 months ago - sparking a campaign by locals to buy it for the community.

(Image: UGC) The fight was recently stepped up after plans came to light to turn the pub, which opened in the 1850s, into a residential property.

A change of use application was lodged with Stroud District Council in March to transform the venue in Midway, Chalford Hill into a house, although the application was last month rejected. 

And now, after developing what they say is a 'robust business plan', CBS are pushing for pledges to help transform and maintain the village pub into a 'vibrant hub' for the village. 

CBS chair Tim Woodfine said: "Many hours of work and local expertise have gone into reaching this point. 

"Now comes the big push to gather pledges from those who responded to our community survey last year, and to generate even wider interest.

"This is truly a rare opportunity to become a part owner of a Cotswold village pub."

Resident John Hutchinson said: "The Old Neighbourhood Inn has been the cornerstone of Chalford Hill for generations.

"This is more than just a pub – it is the heart of our village, a place where everyone can feel welcome and connected.

"It brings people together and fosters a sense of community that really is irreplaceable.

"We, the villagers, want to save this vital hub.

"We simply cannot let it disappear."

The community say they have a vision to create a real hub for everyone in Chalford Hill. 

Simon Pont, who helped develop the share offer said: "Every contribution, big or small, will bring us closer to raising a glass in a thriving Old Neighbourhood Inn once again. 

"We urge everyone who cares about our village, and the vital role pubs play in communities across the country, to get behind this campaign.

"Pubs are closing at an alarming rate nationwide, but inspiring stories of community ownership are proving successful.

"By supporting the Old Neighbourhood Inn, you're not just helping our village, you're contributing to a national movement to save these cherished social spaces."

To contribute or for more information, visit - tinyurl.com/4ahc29jd