WORK is continuing apace on the historic Raven Inn at Glazbury after local campaigners successfully bought their community pub -saving it from demolition.
Since the completion of the sale of the Raven, at the end of April, volunteers have been working very hard both inside and outside the premises, including “beefing up” security after an attempted burglary.
The building has now been made safe and secure and cleared of the considerable amount of rubbish that had been left behind.
Damaged stud walls and ceilings have also been removed. Plaster is being removed from the walls, to reveal the original brickwork.
Friends of the Raven Inn spokesperson Peter Sturman said: “The fact that the Raven has been left in poor condition allows us to strip it back to reveal the original features. We have the opportunity and responsibility to refurbish the Raven to a high standard.
“The work in the grounds of the Raven has literally transformed the outside. Plants, shrubs and fruit bushes, that have been hidden for years, are being revealed. The garden is being set free.
“With the very dedicated hard work from all our volunteers, we have made incredible progress on each Saturday in May. Work continues inside and out.”
Peter added: “In the not too distant future, the windows need to be replaced and the roof needs some attention.
“People passing the Raven will soon be able to see a discernible improvement. In June we will set about painting the exterior, including the timbers, which will be going ‘back to black’.
“The hard-working gardening crew have been discussing options, whilst engaged in their backbreaking work. One idea is to transform an area into a sensory garden. Work will be starting on this, very soon.
“We have beefed up the security after disturbing two thieves, round the back of the building. The police are dealing with offences of attempted burglary, theft and criminal damage.”
Meanwhile, anyone wishing to lend a hand can turn up about 10am on a Saturday morning. Other than the platinum jubilee weekend, the work will continue into June.
