VIDEO: Mat Dempsey
THE hard work starts now as the Friends of the Raven Inn (formerly, Help Save the Raven), gathered outside the iconic pub to mark saving it from the risk of demolition.
The historic Raven Inn was purchased, at auction for £278,000, on the 31st of March. It will reopen as a community pub, but there will be some work required first.
Spokesperson Peter Sturman, who is confident the community pub venture will be a success, said: “In a way, we come full circle today.
“I remember a cold day, with snow on the ground, over three years ago. We all stood outside the Raven, in a peaceful yet very determined demonstration against plans to demolish the Raven and replace it with a few nondescript houses. That determination has grown and grown over the last three years.
“We have seen off two planning applications, had the Raven listed as an Asset of Community Value, held public meetings, made a number of offers to purchase the Raven, conducted a survey to see what our community wants from the Raven and finally been successful in purchasing the Raven.
“Today is an opportunity for some of the thousands of people who fought to save the Raven, to reflect on their achievement. I think it is more relief then celebration.”
Campaigners celebrate outside the pub – Picture Matt Dempsey
Cheers! Campaigners celebrate saving historic Raven Inn at auction
