A HISTORIC village pub which has been running for more than 200 years has become an asset of community value to the district.

The Red Lion of The Street in Latchingdon has this month been added as an ACV by Maldon District Council, after being nominated by the Maldon and Dengie branch of CAMRA.

An ACV is land or property of importance to a local community which is subject to additional protection from development under the 2011 Localism Act.

The pub’s first record is dated in 1801, and this week changed hands to be jointly run by Nina Dighton, James Cartwright and Georgia Ellis, who have worked there for several years.

Nina said: “Since we decided to take the pub on we had huge support from regulars and surround residents. It was seen as a buzzing community hub for the area.”

James said: “With the talk of 300 homes coming, being here and carrying on is quite significant for us, and could make us even more essential to the growing community.”

Richard Holmes Director for Community Services said “The Red Lion Inn, Latchingdon was nominated as an Asset of Community Value by the Maldon and Dengie branch of CAMRA.

"The group stated that the pub furthers the social wellbeing of the local community, which is one of the criteria for listing under the Localism Act.

"The Council examined the nomination and as a result the pub has been accepted onto the Council’s list of Assets of Community Value for a period of five years.”

The pub will be holding a relaunch event on April 28 from 8.30pm, with everyone welcome to attend.