Locals join forces to save historic pub

Locals and beer lovers are working together to raise funds needed to save a historic pub in West Yorkshire.

The Fox and Goose in Hebden Bridge, which has been the site of an alehouse since the early 14th century, needs £130,000 for the purchase and refurbishment of the pub.

People can invest from £100 to £20,000 in shares to co-own the pub and become a member of the co-operative society which has been set up to bring the pub into community ownership. Poor health forced the current landlady to announce she can no longer run the pub.

The Fox and Goose (Hebden Bridge) Limited is now being supported by The Co-operative Enterprise Hub. The share offer is available until July 29, or until the fundraising target is achieved.

So far, 63 funders have bought £46,580 worth of shares.

Dave Young, chairman of the Fox Friends, told the Press Association: “After months of hard work we’ve reached the crucial point in the campaign to save our beloved pub.

“We can now offer residents and real ale fans alike the rare opportunity to own part of what truly is a community asset; it’s a chance to preserve the character of this much loved pub for the benefit of the community now and, for future generations.”