Community pub saved from closure is 'thriving'

A Surrey pub saved from closure after residents raised £1m is now "thriving", according to its new directors.

The Barley Mow, near Farnham, was previously owned by Stonegate before it closed in March last year due to the company's financial struggles.

Jacqueline Selby, along with a group of residents, launched the Save Barley Mow campaign.

Ms Selby, who now helps run the pub, said they had "only one chance" to save it and said the support had been "magnificent".

Ms Selby said: "We targeted our campaign to all locals in the surrounding area to purchase the pub.

"We managed to get 147 investors. We call ourselves the 'Farny Army'".

Dominic Whittle, one of the new directors of the pub, said since the business reopened in September, it has made a positive impact in the community.

He said: "We are seeing people, who have lived in the area for a long time, are actually meeting each other properly over a drink, a coffee or a meal to forge these relationships.

"That is one of the most satisfying things that a group of us have managed to put together."

Ms Selby and Mr Whittle said The Barley Mow is bucking the trend at a time when many pubs have closed across the UK.

Ms Selby said: "The support has been magnificent. Everyone got involved to help refurbish the place.

"This includes sorting out the electrics and sanding the tables.

"Children volunteered to help too. I think that has made a huge difference."

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