A COMMUNITY group passionate about taking ownership of their local pub and turning it into a village hub have been successful in the first steps to buy it.

The Exelby Green Dragon Community Pub Ltd has launched its bid to raise £300,000 to buy the property, in Exelby, near Bedale, and return it to its former glory.

The group has been successful in applying to Hambleton District Council for the Green Dragon to be listed as an Asset of Community Value.

John Walker, secretary of the group, said: "We already have £135,000 pledged to us and we have access to grants and loans of £100,000 so this is an achievable target.

"While some have promised to invest several thousand pounds, it will be possible to own a share of the pub, and have a vote in its future development, for as little as £500.

"We are hoping for large numbers of small investors – as well as some large ones – who can all enjoy owning a share of their own Yorkshire Dales pub.

"Sadly, in recent times the pub has become less than well cared for with irregular opening times, no food service and an absentee landlord.

"We believe that the Green Dragon once again can be a vibrant public house and hive of community activity and would like to be fully involved in its future."

The community group plan to make it not only a great local pub once again, but also to create a village shop and cafe where people can meet and socialise, and to refurbish the attached cottage.

A search is on to recruit a tenant with vision and entrepreneurial qualities to revitalise the pub.

The Exelby Green Dragon Community Pub Ltd will charge a rent, invest in facilities and provide support to the successful candidate.

Another pub which has successfully followed the community pub model is the George and Dragon in Hudswell, near Richmond, which was named CAMRA's national pub of the year 2017.

Mr Walker added: "We have the support of the Plunkett Foundation and The Pub is the Hub together with an energised village that really wants to make a difference.

"We are delighted to be at this exciting stage and look forward to having the Green Dragon at the heart of community again." Visit www.exelbygreendragonpub.co.uk.