A NEW bid has been launched to safeguard the future of an 18th-century pub which, according to local legend, is haunted.
The Star Inn, in Star Lane, Lymm is the last remaining pub in the hamlet of Statham. The building itself dates from the 1840s when it was a fustian cutting house
Lymm Parish Council is seeking to have the pub listed as an asset of community value. They say the pub, as the only one in Statham, contributes significantly to local community life.
It is used by many local organisations, including the local school’s parent-teacher association, the local Labour Party, the Star Gun Club, CAMRA and Warrington Angler’s Association.
The pub holds regular quiz nights, its darts team competes in the local darts league and has large screen televisions which screen popular sporting events, bringing local people together.
It offers refreshment to walking and cyclists using the nearby Trans-Pennine Trail, many of who are fascinated by its history, including the legendary ghost from the 17th century.
Over the years, the top floor of the three-storey building has been subjected to poor quality partitioning. However, a lot of the original features still remain including the large beams that were used to support the heavy fustian cloth cutting bench.
The pub is believed to be one of the best examples in the village of Lymm’s association with the fustian cutting industry which was once Lymm’s main source of employment.
The Star has been listed as a community asset before, but the protection lasts for only five years.
If the listing is granted again, it means the local community would have the opportunity to put together a bid, in the event of the building being put up for sale.
