A GROUP of pub regulars plan to reverse the demise of the local boozer - by buying one themselves.

Around 20 Wivenhoe residents have clubbed together to buy the centuries old Black Buoy pub, after owners Punch Taverns closed it in October.

They have already raised 80 per cent of the cash needed to buy the freehold.

John Moores, the group’s spokesman, said the intention was to restore the pub to its rightful place at the heart of the community.

He said: “It’s not just an investment you make and then forgot about.

“It’s a living, working pub. We want to put it back to its former glory."

See the full story in Thursday's Gazette