Somerset residents campaigning to save their local pubs

People in East Harptree have set up a scheme they hope they will save their local pub known affectionately as 'The Waldy'

Residents are hoping to save their local pub from closure by purchasing community assets.

Two Somerset pubs, the Globe in Milverton and The Waldegrave Arms in East Harptree, are up for sale.

People in the villages have set up share schemes in the hopes the community can own them.

William Waddington, of the Milverton Community Benefit Society, said his local pub was essential to helping "combat loneliness".

They are raising money to buy and renovate the Globe.

The Globe has been put up for sale by Adele and Mark Tarry, who have run the pub for the last 18 years

"It's the centre of villagers getting together, having a chinwag over a pint or some food," said Mr Waddington.

"I know a number of widowers who have their evening meals [at the pub] because they don't like staring at the walls as they're now widowers."

The Globe has been put up for sale by Adele and Mark Tarry, who have run the pub for the last 18 years.

It is on the market for £525,000 and the community group was hoping to buy the Globe for a minimum of £100 a share.

The 'Save the Pub' committee are leading the campaign to save the Waldegrave Arms

In East Harptree, residents have set up a shares scheme in the hope they will save the Waldegrave Arms.

It is the only pub in the village and and its car park is also used for those using the school.

Keith Bowers, member of the 'Save the Pub' committee, said it was "the hub of the community."

"It's the only pub in the village. It would have a big impact on the social life and the community spirit within the village," said Mr Bowers.

The pub chain Admiral has advertised the pub for £595,000. Mr Bowers said they have until 19 April to submit a credible bid to to buy the pub.

So far, the Save the Pub committee has raised about 20% of their shares target.