With pubs closing across the country, even pre-pandemic, in Great Wishford, a community pub is reopening its doors after nearly a year of closing down.

According to British History Online, The Royal Oak, originally known as the Tap, has been open since 1822, having adopted its current name in 1848.

The fate of the pub first became perilous in 2016, with community members fighting to save it and turn it into a community venture. Unfortunately, the doors were closed in early 2022.

But now, new life has been breathed into the pub.

Kerry Leonard, who has gained experience in running a pub as landlord of The Swan in Bedhampton, decided to purchase The Royal Oak when she first learned of its hardship.

Kerry said: “I just fell in love with it the minute I saw it. It’s a lovely pub.

"I know it will be a challenge but I believe that by offering quality food and drink at competitive prices, I can create a destination that villagers will want to use and that others will want to visit."

Kerry has now moved to Great Wishford to run The Royal Oak, after installing a manager at The Swan.

Villagers say they are "delighted that a saviour has been found". 

Tom Brannan run a volunteer group originally founded in 2016 to pursue the ultimately unsuccessful venture of converting The Royal Oak into a community pub and now helps the pub with cleaning and upkeep costs.

He said optimism was not high that a new landlord would be found after the pub closed.

Tom said: “I think Kerry’s the best chance the pub has had in decades.”

The pub will re-open at 6pm on Friday, December 2, with a free buffet and live music from Roy Shergold's Daisy Chain. All are welcome. Meantime, a new chef has been recruited and a full menu is in development.