Want to save a pub? It only costs £25

A pub lover has launched an ambitious project to help thousands of like-minded people buy their own venue.

Steve Dews, finance director at software company Oracle, launched the website www.runmypub.net at the Great British Beer Festival.

He was inspired to start the scheme after 35,000 people paid £35 via myfootballclub.co.uk to buy Ebbsfleet United FC in Kent last year. He aims to run a similar scheme so a cooperative of people can have a say in the running of a pub.

The first step for the members, who will pay £24.99 each, will be choosing a venue (preferably a freehold) to buy.

Once the pub has been secured potential licensees will be able to apply online and members will be keep tabs on its progress by visiting the site.

Steve, who came up with the idea when he was in the pub, said: "We thought if this can be done for a football club, why not for a pub?

"By getting a lot of people to put a small amount in, it is less about an investment and more about having some fun, although the serious side is that we will get a real pub, that clearly has implications for its community."

When Steve has more than 5,000 people signed-up, they will start voting.

He said: "This ranges from which pub to obtain, the decor, the beer, food, entertainment, what we do with the profits - everything subject to legal, financial and ethical constraints will be put to the vote.

"If we keep a pub, or pubs, open that would have otherwise closed and enjoy the journey that will very much be deemed a success."

For more information visit www.runmypub.net