Pub group invite Prince William to pull first pint

People fighting to save their historic village pub have invited Prince William to pull the first pint if it re-opens.

The Somerset Arms, at Semington near Melksham in Wiltshire, closed three years ago and a campaign is under way to raise enough money to buy it and get it re-opened.

Villagers decided to invite the Prince of Wales after he called for rural pubs to be protected and supported during a recent visit to London.

"This is exactly what William was talking about," said Ian Williamson, chair of the Semington Community Benefit Society. "We're writing to thank him for supporting pubs like ours, and we'd love to welcome him when we get it re-opened."

The campaign has received £193,000 in pledges from villagers and other supporters, who have promised to buy shares in the business.

The Wellington Pub Company is asking for £395,000, but campaigners believe they can negotiate a lower price.

Scores of local volunteers have offered to help restore the building if the plan to buy it is successful.

Vice chair Andy Cobley said: "We're very excited that so many people inside and outside Semington are backing us. We think the Prince would be impressed."

The pledge appeal by the Semington Community Benefit Society has now been extended to 1 August.

"The Somerset Arms is a listed building that has been sadly neglected and now needs a lot of money spent immediately just to prevent further deterioration," society secretary Glen Watson said.

He added the owners "have good reason to accept a reasonable offer from us".

The BBC has contacted the Wellington Pub Company for comment.

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