In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Dorset village of Langton Herring has successfully saved its cherished local pub, The Elm Tree Inn, from permanent closure. Through a remarkable crowdfunding and viral TikTok campaign, the community came together to buy back the pub and hand over the reins to new tenants eager to breathe new life into the establishment.
The Elm Tree Inn will officially reopen on Monday, July 14, under the management of James and Katharine Parsons. This milestone follows the Friends of the Elm Tree Inn (FOTETI) completing the purchase in May, after a six-month campaign that captured the imagination of supporters worldwide with TikTok videos amassing over a million views.
Reflecting on their success, FOTETI shared, “Just over six months ago, we launched a campaign to save The Elm Tree for the community. Thanks to generous support and additional loans, we’ve secured the pub and its contents, and we’re determined to repay these loans as quickly as possible.”
READ MORE: Travel Warning Ahead of Stereophonics Cardiff Gig
READ MORE: Somerset Primary School Urged to Improve Despite Positive Ofsted Feedback on Care
James and Katharine have been appointed as tenants and are finalizing preparations ahead of the reopening. They’ve designed new affordable menus featuring locally sourced food and drinks, including a Sunday carvery, afternoon teas, and special offers. Meanwhile, the pub itself has been refreshed with a redecorated interior and a newly added garden area with ample seating for guests to enjoy.
The community’s support remains crucial, with FOTETI continuing to raise funds to reduce outstanding loans. People are encouraged to invest by purchasing community shares starting at £200, helping to secure the pub’s future.
The group also recognized singer-songwriter Sarah de Warren and her parents, Tim and Hilary Warren, for spearheading the campaign’s creative TikTok strategy. Their innovative approach played a significant role in spreading awareness far beyond Dorset.
“Support has poured in from all over the globe, from unexpected places as well as from our local Dorset community,” FOTETI noted.
Plans are underway for an official reopening event in early September to celebrate and thank everyone who contributed to saving The Elm Tree Inn.
Reservations can be made by emailing [email protected] or calling 07770 749458. Donations and community share purchases remain open via www.crowdfunder.co.uk/friends-of-the-elm-tree-inn.