A campaign to save a rural pub may have moved a step closer today with the confirmation that it has won Government funding of nearly £275,000 to help it bid to buy the disused premises.

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin backed the campaign to save the Bell at Pensax and supported the rescue team’s bid into the Government’s Community Ownership Fund.

The MP also questioned Ministers in the House of Commons about plans to support the campaign and today, it was confirmed that the bid team has been successful.

The group now plans to approach the current pub owners with a plan to return the pub to full operation as quickly as possible.

Harriett said:

“Rural pubs form an important part of our community and they also attract tourists and I am always saddened when I hear of closures.

“I have worked closely with the bid team for over a year and have fully supported their efforts including making this bid for Government funding.

“I hope that the team is now able to take the bid over the last mile and secure the premises for a return to trading.

“I hope that we will be able to celebrate that next step soon and may be plan for a pint in the Bell at Pensax before too long.”

Minister for Levelling Up Jacob Young said:

“We’ve had brilliant bids from every corner of the UK and I’m delighted we’re supporting an extra 72 projects with almost £25 million of levelling up funding going directly to community groups.

“We know this funding has the power to bring about meaningful change to local people; protecting local spaces, preserving historic buildings, and transforming communities.”