VILLAGERS trying to save their local pub have made an offer to buy the building.

The Maybush Inn, Farm Road, Great Oakley, closed in April sparking fears the building could be sold it could be turned into a home or even be knocked down.

Concerned residents set up a committee to look into how the village could save the pub.

Business plans have been drafted, applications for funding are set to be made and a share scheme for residents is soon to be set up in a bid to protect the pub's future.

It is hoped the pub could be open by the end of the year.

A public meeting is being held on Monday, July 27, at the village hall on Harwich Road at 7.30pm to discuss the current plans and to encourage villagers to get involved.