Locals in Horncliffe, near Berwick, rallied together and raised over £300,000 to purchase their beloved pub, The Fishers Arms, which was facing closure. The historic establishment, dating back to 1760, is known as the most northerly pub in England and is situated near the chainbridge over the River Tweed, a popular spot for visitors heading into Scotland.
Despite reopening in December 2023 with the support of notable figures like Hairy biker Si King, actors Robson Green and Kevin Whately, and members of the band Lindisfarne, the pub is now in need of a new operator. After initial tenants departed quickly and subsequent applicants withdrew, a dedicated team of volunteers, including Moira Kay, has been working tirelessly to keep the pub running, with support from locals of all ages.
The community effort to save The Fishers Arms was bolstered by selling shares, receiving grants from organizations like the National Lottery and the Berwick Community Trust, and obtaining an Asset of Community Value Order from the Northumberland County Council. The pub, which offers various services including bed and breakfast accommodations and community events, is a cornerstone of the village.
Hubert Gieschen, from the Campaign for Real Ale, commended the community’s determination to preserve the pub, emphasizing the importance of such establishments in society. The ongoing ‘Your Pub Needs You’ campaign by The Mirror advocates for government assistance for struggling pubs, community-led rescues of at-risk venues, and a VAT reduction for the hospitality sector.
With winter approaching, the search for a new tenant is urgent, with an offer of the first two months’ rent-free. The initiative has garnered widespread support, including from John Charlton, son of football legend Jack Charlton and a fellow pub owner in Northumberland. The effort to maintain and revitalize community pubs remains a focal point in the quest to preserve these vital social hubs.