A GROUP of residents are hoping to be the first in Yorkshire to buy their village pub.
Villagers in Burythorpe are aiming to save the Bay Horse and reopen it as a focal point for the local community.

The pub, which is currently up for sale, was registered as a community asset last December, with groups interested in buying it invited to express an interest by the end of May.

Burythorpe Parish Council has now agreed to make a bid for the Bay Horse using a loan from the Public Works Loan Board and has until October 16 to submit its final offer.

David Quick, who has lived in the village for 10 years, said there was a great deal of support to save the pub both from those living in Burythorpe and further afield.

“We had over 90 people at our initial meeting and a committee was formed to put proposals together on behalf of the community,” he added.

“Our plan is to hold another meeting this week which will be the chance for everyone in the community to ask questions about the plan, and to address any issues. We will also hold a survey to seek community approval for the proposals.”

David said they wanted to ensure residents were happy with the plans and were seeking approval from two-thirds of the community to proceed.

“The aim is to get a tennant in to operate and they would decide how the business is run but we also want to open it up as a facility for the village as much as possible as well,” he added.

“Among the suggestions are community groups using the pub such as the Countrywomen’s Association, sports groups and the cricket club, we also hope to get darts and domino teams back.”

David said they wanted people to feel the Bay Horse was part of the village once again.

“Obviously this is a big task to undertake but the pub is sorely missed and it is having an effect on the community spirit ,” he added

“We no longer have somewhere neighbours can meet up and chat and relax and it is not just people in Burythorpe who miss it, we have also had support from many of the surrounding villages as well.”

David added: “It would be fantastic if we could have the pub open by Christmas. We would be the first village in Yorkshire to achieve this if we manage it.”

A meeting will be held at Burythorpe church at 7.30pm on Friday, June 5. Everyone is welcome.