The East Wells Community Benefit Society is organizing another Quiz Night this Saturday, October 11, at 7 pm in St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, to raise funds for their mission to buy and reopen the Britannia Inn on Bath Road as a vibrant community pub.
Following the launch of their second share offer, the society aims to raise between £276,000 and £415,000, inviting both new and existing shareholders to invest in preserving this treasured local landmark. Earlier this year, the first share offer, which ran from April to June, successfully raised over £76,500.
The Britannia Inn has been closed since June 2021 when long-time landlords Rob and Karen Rouse retired after 35 years of service. The East Wells Community Benefit Society was founded to secure the pub’s future as a community hub where residents can gather and participate in a variety of activities. Funds raised will cover the purchase price as well as necessary repairs and refurbishments.
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In a recent Annual General Meeting, the ‘Save the Britannia’ campaign committee announced they invoked a further six-month moratorium on the sale of the pub under the ‘Asset of Community Value’ legislation, extending protection until March 2026. Any competing offers must be submitted within this timeframe.
The second share offer prospectus highlights the community’s strong support: “Our initial offer closed on June 30, 2025, raising £76,550 from 128 shareholders averaging £598 each. Although this amount isn’t yet sufficient for a credible purchase offer, it demonstrates significant local backing. Notably, 71% of shareholders reside in East Wells, but many residents have yet to join the effort. We urge the 95% who haven’t invested to step forward and help us reach our target.”
The committee outlined plans to raise the necessary £276,000 by January 2, 2026, through a mix of share sales, grants, donations, and potentially other affordable financing options. Maximizing fundraising during these months is critical, especially as the moratorium restricts sale to others, giving the society exclusive rights to negotiate.
The upcoming Quiz Night welcomes teams of up to six players, with an entry fee of £3 per participant. While there is no licensed bar, attendees are encouraged to bring their own drinks; tea, coffee, and soft drinks will be available for purchase. Those interested can book a place by emailing [email protected] or calling 01749 678725.
Committee members will also be present to share updates on the campaign and provide details about the new share offer, inviting the community to become part of this vital initiative to save the Britannia Inn.