Over 450 Britons have come together to save a community pub which was forced to close more than two years ago.
The New Clarence in Charles Street, Hull, is reopening its doors after the public raised about £250,000 through the sale of public shares.
The establishment sold shares starting at £100, with 465 people owning the community pub.
After shutting down in 2023, the successful campaign will resume operations on Saturday, September 6.
The Hull Community Pub Society, which launched in January 2025, will now run it after raising enough money to buy and renovate the pub in under 10 months.
Chairman of the group, Simon Berry, 62, said: “This is people power; the public coming together to create Hull’s first community-owned pub.”
“When you’ve got 460-odd people who have bought shares, it just shows how important this venue was to keep it as a local British pub.”
“For anything to be successful, you have to have people believe in it, and also we have to deliver something that people want.”
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The New Clarence in Charles Street, Hull, is reopening its doors
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Mr Berry added: “We’ve got a community space where people can come where they can feel safe and they can have a pint and or a pie.”
The restoration was met with “unforeseen work” that needed doing, including the electrics and structural work, the Chairman told the BBC.
Landlord Jamie Reading told the broadcaster: “These are exciting times and we look forward to welcoming new and returning customers. After all the hard work, we are finally here.”
The group had also received £300,000 from the Government community ownership fund, which helped towards the renovations.
After shutting down in 2023, the successful campaign will resume operations on Saturday
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The New Clarence promises to cater to all needs
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The New Clarence promises to cater to all needs, including those of vegans and vegetarians, and offers an accessible environment, a fine range of cask ales, real ciders, and wines.
In a statement released on Facebook, the establishment wrote: “The wait is almost over! We’re beyond excited to announce that on the 6th of September we’ll be officially opening our doors to the public!
“The New Clarence is back – ready to serve great beer, delicious food, and plenty of community spirit. Come and join us for fine ale, tasty meals laughter, and conversations that bring people together.
“This is more than just a pub – it’s your community pub, for everyone. Team Clarence can’t wait to welcome you and start this new journey together. Mark the date, bring your friends, and let’s make memories at The New Clarence!”
