Prince William invited to pull first pint at village pub

The Prince of Wales has been invited to pull the first pint in a Semington pub that campaigners are fighting to reopen.

The Semington Community Benefit Society (CBS), formed by residents, is aiming to buy and reopen the Somerset Arms, which has been closed since 2023.

The group has written to Prince William, inviting him to pull the first pint when the pub reopens after he recently voiced support for protecting and supporting pubs.

Chair of the CBS Ian Williamson said, “We are writing to thank him for supporting pubs like ours and we’d love to welcome him when we get it re-opened.”

Last month, the group launched a community pledge scheme and has already received £193,000 in pledges to buy shares from 237 villagers and other supporters.

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 has been extended to 1st August and the Society is working on a bid for the pub. The Wellington Pub Company is asking for £395,000, but the Society believes it can negotiate a lower price.

Scores of local volunteers have offered to help restore he building once it is bought by the community.

“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,” says Society secretary Glen Watson.

“The owners know that within months, new legislation will compel them to sell to the community at a fair price. So, they have good reason to accept a reasonable offer from us.”