A COMMUNITY GROUP who are looking to save a pub near Stroud are appealing to residents to help them. 

The Cranham Friends group, which has already raised more than £250,000 for the project to save the Black Horse, are just days away from their share offer which they hope will help save the pub from closure. 

Mark Harwood, Chairperson of the group behind the bid to save the pub, said: "The Black Horse has been part of the community for hundreds of years and its loss would be devastating for so many people.

"Too many pubs across the country are closing.

Stroud News and Journal: Members of the group outside the Black Horse in Cranham

 

"We are now days away from the end of our share offer on (June 18) which we are hoping will save the pub from closure and allow us to refurbish it whilst being sympathetic to its history and character. 

"We are looking to raise a minimum of £250,000 from the share offer and have secured £250,000 of matched funding from the government’s Community Ownership Fund.

"Share purchases are in our Community Benefit Society, Friends Of The Black Horse Cranham Ltd.  

"The minimum share investment is £50 and it is one shareholder, one vote, whatever the value of shares purchased, enhancing the inclusivity to this project. 

"We have been in discussion with potential tenants who would support us with making The Black Horse a welcoming hub for current and future generations locally and from afar to connect and thrive.

"The share offer is open to people from outside of the village as well as inside Cranham.  

"Perhaps you have shared a meal or drink at the pub with family or friends in years gone by.

"If you would like to support this exciting project, you can find out more on our website: www.theblackhorsecranham.uk or reach out to us on: theblackhorsecommunity@outlook.com"