Residents based in a small village near Aylesbury have successfully raised much-needed funds to save an ancient pub in the area.

The Ashendon Pub, which is situated in its namesake, has been in the area for well over 300 years before it sadly closed in November 2021.

Following its cease in trade, many locals felt ‘disconnected’.

However, since then, residents have clubbed together to try and start campaign to bring the pub back to life.

And after three years, they succeeded in their £500,000 funding target.

Campaigners are now looking for a new tenant.

Luke Jamieson, Chair, said: “This achievement is a testament to the collective spirit and determination of our local population to preserve its local community, maintain inter-village connectivity, and support UK village pubs.

“Singer, Tony Hadley, a local supporter of the ‘Save the Ashendon Pub’ campaign, has also promised to come and sing at the pub’s opening night to celebrate.”

The Ashendon Community Pub Society raised an incredible £549,494 to save its village pub as a community asset.

The fundraising total represents £300,000 in Community Ownership government funding plus £249,494 through a community share offer and donations, whilst a sale price of £420,000 has been agreed.

However, while the share offer surpassed its minimum target, the Society continues to fundraise through donations, and sponsorships to reach its optimum target of a further £50,000 to fund essential refurbishments.

The village is now on the hunt for quality-driven and community-minded tenants to bring the pub back to a vibrant community hub and a welcoming destination for visitors.

The residents have been thrilled by the support from outside the village as 72 per cent of the total community share value came from Ashendon residents, yet by volume of share applications, 54 per cent came from outside the village, with some donors being based all over Europe, the US and Asia.

The primary objectives for the community pub are:  
 

  • Preserve the Heart of the Community: The foremost goal is to prevent the permanent loss of the pub and retain it as a vibrant place to connect at the centre of the village. This will preserve its historical significance as a public meeting place and provide a welcoming social hub for residents and visitors for dining, events, club-hosting, and gatherings.  
  • Provide A Local Food & Drink Solution. Where none exists within walking distance.
  • Provide Daytime Social Interaction: Including cycling clubs and ramblers who typically enjoy our challenging climbs and beautiful views.
  • Regenerate A Small Amount of Local Employment.
  • Foster Community Involvement: Through the opportunity to have a say in the big decisions about the pub and hosting events that include all backgrounds and ages.
  • Support Local Businesses and Sustainability: By establishing strong ties with local producers, such as butchers and breweries, to ensure the pub operates sustainably and supports the local economy.  
  • Attract a Wider Community: Building upon the Hundred of Ashendon’s previous good reputation, drawing in customers from a broader catchment area including Thame and its surrounding villages.