A HEREFORDSHIRE community group which has been trying to buy its local pub has said the sale has finally gone through.

More than four months ago, the group, Open Arms Kington, saw its offer on the town's 17th-century Duke Street pub accepted.

But the group said it had been stuck in "that strange period of property purchase limbo" when surveys were being completed and solicitors and estate agents were said to be "doing their thing".

But the sale has now gone through, meaning the group can press on with its plan to create a space that presents opportunities for a wide range of ages, abilities and interests.

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The group said it was delighted to announce that Open Arms Kington had bought the Oxford Arms.

After nearly two years of feasibility studies, grant-writing, fundraising and consultation, and with the enduring patience and support of current owners Fred and Sadie, the deal was completed on Thursday, it said.

The building itself will initially close for a period of time while essential work is carried out.

But, in the interim, the group hoped to host a programme of community gatherings and pop-up events with opportunities for everyone to get involved.

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The £500,000 masterplan will see a social enterprise that will contribute to the town's social and economic regeneration and help build long-term community resilience coming out of the Covid pandemic.

It wants to preserve one of, what the group believes to be, the town's most cherished pubs and community venues, while also investing in the creation and development of an inclusive and vibrant community hub for Kington.

It is all part of the hope to secure a vibrant future for the landmark building, a 17th-century town centre coaching inn which boasts a bar, restaurant, function room, six ensuite letting bedrooms, owners' accommodation, a beer patio, and car park.