A VILLAGE in Tameside has already raised over £60,000 in its attempt to save its much-loved local pub from closure.
The Harewood Arms in the heart of Broadbottom is up for sale as the owner Phil Wild wishes to retire.
With interest in taking on the venue quiet, local residents came together to form the Broadbottom Community Pub Group in a bid to raise the required funds and turn the Market Street establishment into a community-run venture.
The group was set up by Phil Hesketh, Lesley Wylie, Andrew Taylor and Grenville Lunn, with support from Affie Lockhart.
They are initially raising funds through pledges from members of the local community, with a target of £250,000 – which would then be supplemented by Government funding from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
They have already raised over £62,000 in pledges from more than 50 supporters and are holding regular meetings at the pub to keep people updated, discuss fundraising ideas and explore plans to expand its operations.
The committee has also expressed its intention to continue running The Green Mill Brewery, which is housed within the pub and officially recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), as well as reviving the tradition of selling the award-winning brewery’s beers to other pubs and businesses.
To the Broadbottom Community Pub Group, The Harewood Arms holds more importance beyond merely functioning as a pub.
Affie Lockhart, from the committee, told the Correspondent: “In a period where Broadbottom experienced the closure of both its local Post Office and Arts and Crafts Centre, The Harewood Arms stands as one of the few remaining establishments within our village, serving as a vital social focal point.
“It provides a gathering place for individuals who may not have a strong support network nearby, offering them the opportunity for social engagement.
“Additionally, the pub is home to both pool and ladies darts teams and regularly welcomes walkers, including first-time visitors to the area and returning patrons.”
He continued: “Our establishment prides itself on being dog-friendly, creating an inclusive environment for all.
“It is important to note that The Harewood Arms operates as a local employer, independently owned and not part of a larger chain.
“Our dedicated staff members play a crucial role in sustaining the pub for our valued patrons. Should the pub face closure, the livelihoods of these staff members would be directly impacted.”
If anyone would like more information or make a pledge to the campaign, email communityharewood@gmail.com or send a message to the ‘Save The Harewood Arms’ Facebook page.