VILLAGERS at Great Langton are up in arms over the closure of their pub and are mounting a rescue attempt.

Nearly 40 people packed in to the garage of parish chairman, David Hoult, on Tuesday for a meeting.

The Wishing Well closed several weeks ago after the owner, Neville Boynton, claimed it was losing money.

This has left nowhere handy for social gatherings. The nearest pub is three miles away in Kirkby Fleetham.

After hearing a run-down of the position, villagers decided to minute meetings, write an exploratory letter to Hambleton Council and check with the magistrates' court regarding the license. Ward councillor, Brian Phillips, will talk to Hambleton planning officers and report back.

Mr Hoult said it seemed Mr Boynton planned to convert the property into a house and then sell it. The meeting heard this would require change of use planning permission, which was when a protest could be made.

The pub used to offer darts and domino teams, a pool team, quiz nights, bonfire, Christmas and birthday parties. It was also used as a polling station and for parish council meetings.

"The Wishing Well is the only community amenity we have," said Mr Hoult. "Most of the activities have been dropped over recent years. It was a thriving country pub, and could be again."

Mr Hoult understood Mr Boynton had lost several thousands of pounds over the eight years he had been there.

Residents are angry the pub seemed to close without notice. A note was displayed concerning some alterations, but the pub sign came down and everything changed.

Said Mr Hoult: "Villagers want to see someone take on the pub and run it as a proper business offering all the facilities of a country inn."

Coun Phillips said Mr Boynton was within his rights to close the pub.

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