Locals in Horncliffe, near Berwick, successfully gathered over £300,000 to purchase and save their beloved Fishers Arms pub. However, they are currently in urgent need of a dedicated individual to manage the establishment.
Originally established in 1760, the Fishers Arms is renowned as the northernmost pub in England, located near the iconic chainbridge over the River Tweed, offering a gateway to Scotland. The pub attracts both cyclists and tourists due to its historic significance and picturesque setting.
Despite reopening in December 2023 following the fundraising campaign, the pub faced challenges with tenant turnover. Moira Kay, a devoted volunteer, and her team work tirelessly to operate the pub, with support from notable personalities like Si King, Robson Green, Kevin Whately, and Lindisfarne members.
The community’s effort to save the pub was evident, with 403 residents contributing to the purchase by selling shares at £500 each. Additional financial support came from grants, including those from the National Lottery and the Berwick Community Trust.
The Fishers Arms has been designated as an Asset of Community Value by the Northumberland County Council, safeguarding its use as a pub. The community’s determination to preserve the pub was acknowledged by Hubert Gieschen, the Campaign for Real Ale’s North East regional director, highlighting the vital role pubs play in society.
To attract a new tenant, the pub is offering the first two months of accommodation rent-free if filled before winter. The campaign ‘Your Pub Needs You’ by the Mirror advocates for government assistance for struggling pubs, community-led buyouts, and reduced VAT rates for the hospitality sector, garnering support from various community groups and individuals like John Charlton.
The quest to find a new operator for the Fishers Arms reflects the ongoing challenges faced by pubs in today’s economic climate. With the community’s unwavering support, the hope is to secure the pub’s future and continue serving as a vital hub for locals and visitors alike.