Approximately 40 people attended a meeting at The Cross to share information and discuss the proposed sale of the pub.

Nic Corrigan was point of contact for the group who previously worked on listing the pub as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) and explained the implications this now had on any future sale of the pub.  A flow diagram is attached which summarises the options that are now available to the local community and supporters and the key critical deadlines.

Terry, the current Landlord, advised that the owner was due to retire and is therefore selling several of his properties.  The likely sale value of the pub is offers over £200k.  He is planning to sell it as a going concern to be run as a pub.  Terry and Andrew are currently investigating the option of purchasing it themselves which was widely supported within the meeting.

A question and answer session followed and it was generally agreed that a Steering Group needed to be formed to investigate the levels of support within the local area for the pub and whether there was a need for a Community Group to be formed to bid for the pub to be owned and run as a community enterprise.  The deadline to make this decision is 23rd December. Some people have offered to take part in this Steering Group but ideally a few more volunteers are needed due to the very tight deadlines we are working towards.  A volunteer to lead this first stage of the process is also being sought.

A provisional meeting date was set for Tuesday 15th December for the Steering Group to present their findings and proposal regarding the intention to bid.

Time is now very tight but there is still time to be involved and any help would be greatly appreciated.  At this stage, it would only mean a commitment to being involved until 23rd December.  If you think you could help, please contact Nic Corrigan on 01422 843397 or by email to niccorrigan@yahoo.co.uk.