PUB regulars have been asked if they will chip in to buy their local - even though the landlord has already been given permission to convert the building into homes.

When the New Inn, in Hunton, closed some time ago, customers went to the The Countryman Inn.

But landlord Mike Kirby has struggled to make ends meet and has warned the village he may have to close unless people can come up with an alternative.

Working groups were set up after a meeting called to find a solution. Buying the premises as a community was the idea the majority of people agreed to pursue.

"We have until the end of March to come up with something and this seemed the most workable,'' said spokeswoman Jane Huffadine.

"We've sent letters out to homes across the area because the pub is used by people from outside the village as well and we're waiting to see what sort of response we get.

"All we need are pledges at this stage so we can get an idea of how much support there is out there. But, whatever the offer, it will not be binding.

"It is up to the individual how much they want to put in, but we've suggested anything between £100 to £10,000 as a guide.''

The pub has continued operating on a reduced-hours basis following the regulars' pleas to be allowed to look at alternatives.

Mr Kirby declined to comment on the latest idea yesterday, although he has yet to reject it outright.

"We know he's mulling it over at the moment,'' said Mrs Huffadine. "If this is going to work, then it does rely on his co-operation.

"However, the idea of the community buying its own pub is only a fortnight old and, already, the reaction from the rest of the village seems to be positive.

"We will carry on appealing for pledges and see where were are in a few weeks' time.''

Anyone who would like to be part of the scheme to buy The Countryman Inn can telephone (01677) 450248.