2008
Aug
Last orders at the bar
The George & Dragon, the only pub in Hudswell, closes when its owners go bankrupt. The building is stripped of its fittings and put on the market.
2009
Jan
Local stirrings
A few former pub regulars start discussing possibility of creating some kind of consortium to buy it.
Apr
Training
A local resident attends course on community shares.
May
June
Steering Group
Small group of seven meets several times to develop proposal to buy the pub financed by a community share issue.
Jul
Public meeting
Attended by 45 people in village hall. Enthusiastic support for proposal.
Aug
Dec
Development work
- Formal offer to purchase property (accepted 30 October)
- Prospectus drafted to secure pledges of support.
- Registration as an Industrial and Provident Society for Community Benefit.
- Grant applications.
- Publicity.
2010
Jan
Fundraising
HCP raises funds from investors and grant aid.
Feb
Building purchased
HCP raises funds from investors and grant aid.
Mar
Refurbishment
Pub refurbished by local builders and craftsmen with help from many volunteers. Tenants appointed to run the pub.
Jun
Pub reopens
The George & Dragon re-opens as a community run pub. Launch event attended by local MP and HCP member, Foreign Secretary, William Hague.
Dec
Shop opens
The Little Shop opens for business.