Campaign launches to save historic Ickleton Lion pub

Villagers have launched a campaign to rescue The Ickleton Lion pub from closure.

The Ickleton Lion has been a public house in Ickleton since 1728, but closed its doors in July 2023 and has been put up for sale by owners Greene King. 

Now, residents are calling on locals, businesses and philanthropists to help raise £450,000 to save the last remaining pub in the village from closure.

Campaigners have until 24 September 2024 to raise the funds and open it as a community-owned pub, protecting it from potential redevelopment.

Rachel Radford, Chair of Ickleton Lionhearted, spoke to Star Radio:

"The Lion has been serving the local communities of Ickleton, Hinxton, Duxford, Great Chesterford and beyond for three centuries. 

"In World War II it was a popular haunt for US airmen, and in recent years an intellectual retreat for scientists at the nearby Wellcome Genome Campus and thirst quencher for cyclists along Route 11.

"We want a thriving pub at the heart of our village again."

The community share offer was launched on 10 July 2024 and will run until 31 August 2024 with a target of £450,000. 

Shares will cost £1 with a minimum investment of £200 and maximum of £100,000, and every member – irrespective of their shareholding – will have an equal say in the operation.