We the undersigned believe in saving what’s best about the fantastic community of Kirkby Malzeard. We believe in protecting and enhancing the assets that we have. We believe that this village deserves the best we can offer – for the good of our community, visitors and local businesses.

This historic pub - famous in North Yorkshire and beyond - has been a vital part of the village for more than 250 years and is an important part of our cultural heritage. After an eight-year stand-off with a developer unwilling to engage, it's been allowed to fall into a disgraceful state.

The only way to end this stalemate - and allow plans for a community buyout - is to force the owner to sell at a price set by an independent valuer.

We call on North Yorkshire Council to carry out a valuation and begin Compulsory Purchase proceedings as a matter of urgency!

We have the funds, the organisation and the village behind us – now please give us the opportunity to restore and revive this much-missed facility as a community-owned pub which everyone can enjoy!