ALMOST £100,000 has been raised in a community campaign to save a pub in Wells.

The East Wells Community Benefit Society (EWCBS), formed in 2024, has been fundraising in a bid to buy the former Britannia Inn and re-open it as a community pub.

Now, through share offers and more, the group has raised almost £100,000 – and is in negotiations with a benefactor they hope will make up the shortfall in the amount needed to buy and refurbish the pub.

it is currently on the market for £300,000, with an outcome over the campaign expected in the coming weeks – by March 19 at the latest.

“Should these negotiations prove successful, the group is keen to attract practical support from enthusiastic members of the community who can offer skills such as accountancy, legal, building, plumbing, electrics, plastering, roofing, decorating and landscaping,” a spokesperson said.

“Meanwhile, an open share offer will be available for any new subscribers (minimum investment only £50) or any existing shareholders who wish to top-up their shareholding.

“If the EWCBS fail to buy The Britannia site, all shareholders money will be refunded in full.”

For more information, to read the business plan and share offer prospectus, visit the EWCBS website at www.savethebritanniainnwells.org.

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