THE campaign to save a much-loved pub in Malvern is gathering momentum.

The Brewers Arms Community Pub group is trying to save the West Malvern drinking spot, which current owners Admiral Taverns are trying to sell.

In an update to members via the group's Facebook page, chairman Brian O'Connell said around 300 pledges to buy shares have now been received, putting them in a good place to raise the money needed to buy it.

The update read: "So far we have received pledges from 300 people and if everyone buys the maximum number of shares they pledged, it will easily be sufficient funds for the community buyout and some repairs and refurbishment."

At a meeting in November last year, members of the community agreed to try and buy the pub, with around £350,000 needed to buy the site and another £150,000 needed to refurbish the interior.

Malvern Gazette: VOTE: West Malvern residents agree to buy the Brewers ArmsVOTE: West Malvern residents agree to buy the Brewers Arms

Mr O'Connell added: "If people only buy the minimum number of shares that they indicated, then there should just about be enough for the purchase, but no more.

"Therefore, we are still keen for more people to pledge to buy shares, so if you know anyone who is thinking about joining us, please encourage them to do so as soon as possible."

A surveyor for the group will visit the pub on April 8 to carry out a full study before a specialist valuer visits.

Once their reports are received, the community group will make a firm offer to the owners.

Admiral announced last year it was looking to sell off the pub, with the community group being set up in November to explore buying it.

Malvern Gazette: MEETING: The most recent Brewers Arms community meetingMEETING: The most recent Brewers Arms community meeting

At its first meeting, West Malvern residentes agreed unanimously to register their interest in buying the pub.

Since the closure announcement, the pub has been re-opened by Admiral using staff from the Railway Inn until a buyer is found.

At the November meeting, the stated aim of the pub was laid out, namely returning it to its "glory years" when it was run by legendary landlords Trevor Marston and Sue Adamson.

For more information, go to the Brewers Community Pub website at www.brewerscommunitypub.co.uk/