PUB regulars have launched a campaign to save one of the region's oldest bars from closing.

People at The Ship pub, in Guisborough, east Cleveland, are gathering support for their fight after learning that Enterprise Inns has considered selling the property.

The Ship, in Westgate, is documented as trading as long ago as 1812 and has remained unchanged for years.

Landlord and landlady, Richard and Jean Storey, were told this summer that the company planned to sell, but said they had been kept in the dark since.

They said builders and architects had been in the pub on behalf of an interested buyer, but they had no idea whether any potential owners will want to keep the building as a pub, or turn it into a house.

"We have been here for four-and-a-half years and we would really like to stay. It's a very popular pub," said Mr Storey, who is known as Stodge.

"It's very busy with all kinds of people - it's a viable concern. We welcome families and we had two football teams in this morning.

"It will be a shame if it is no longer a pub."

Former councillor and pub regular David Walsh, who has enjoyed a drink there for more than 30 years, is leading the campaign to save The Ship and has helped to collect a 300-name petition.

He said the pub was steeped in history and part of its charm for customers was its no frills and fuss.

"It would be a great shame if it went," he said.

"This pub is a haven of peace and quiet. The Ship is a real locals' pub and a lot of people in the surrounding area would be very unhappy to lose it.

"I think Enterprise Inns wants to take advantage of the property market, but we just hope they sell to another brewery."

Kenny Swales, 72, from Guisborough, has been using the pub for 55 years.

He said: "I like it because it hasn't changed. It's exactly the same."

And Ken Morgan, 54, from Guisborough, has been a regular at the pub since a teenager.

"I have come here since being old enough to drink," he said.

"It has good, friendly staff and management and great crack. It's got a good atmosphere and there are always friendly faces here.

"If it closes, we will be out on the street."

Nobody at Enterprise Inns was available for comment.