4 out of 10 would help save local pub

Four out of ten adults would be willing to join efforts to save their local pub if it was under threat, research from the Campaign for Real Ale revealed as David Cameron unveiled his Big Society​ plans.

Government officials will be made available to help community groups that want to run pubs. Communities will also get help to identify and fund a "community organiser" for such schemes.

CAMRA said that 43% are willing to participate to save their community pub — rising to 63% amongst regular pub goers.

CAMRA has written to the Government seeking assurances that adequate resources will be allocated to provide business, legal and financial advice to communities wishing to save their local pub by running it as a mutual, co-operative or social enterprise.

"Pubs provide the vibrant heart of our communities and provide an invaluable meeting place and the centre for countless local activities," said CAMRA head of policy and public affairs Jonathan Mail. 

"The loss of such pubs can be devastating to community spirit and identity and Government has a key role to play in enabling communities to come together to save their local pubs.

CAMRA is committed to ensuring the Government back up their vision of a Big Society with practical legal, business and financial advice to ensure the success of community attempts to save local pubs through community ownership."

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) welcomed the news and the chance to work with Government to help community pubs.

"There are considerable opportunities to formally recognise the role pubs play in community engagement and to develop the right incentives and rewards for their broader remit in local communities," said chief executive Brigid Simmonds.

"Pubs are recognised as a vital part of communities up and down the country. In many rural areas, they are one of the few places where people can come together and share common experiences.

"They provide a focal point for local people, a hub for local amenities and activities and support for community clubs and charitable causes."