A POPULAR gastro-pub near Cirencester which just last week looked likely to be lost forever could be saved by two chefs.
The future of the Seven Tuns pub in Chedworth looked bleak when Cotswold District Council rejected a community asset bid.
But now a London-based culinary duo have come forward with plans to take over the much-loved Grade II listed dining location and return it to its former glory.
Chefs Elliot Cree, 28, and Kathleen Cree-Vincent, 34, have worked in seven countries alongside the likes of Gordon Ramsay.
When the 17th Century pub closed for the third time in 10 years last December due to rocketing bills and declining trade, many villagers thought it may never open again.
However, Elliot and Kathleen are now planning to turn it into a thriving foodie haven for both villagers and visitors.
They presented a business plan to Chedworth Parish Council on Thursday.
“We are desperate to help protect this beautiful pub and to bring our own experience and skills to a village we have fallen in love with," said Elliot, who was alerted to the pub by his mum Suzi who lives in Bibury.
"Our key priority is to work with the community.
"Chedworth is a sizeable village and we have already had conversations with residents about how the pub can better serve their needs and become a true hub for the village.
"With a huge amount of passing trade, particularly in the summer too, we are keen to make sure the Seven Tuns remains firmly on the foodie map for both locals and tourists alike."
Kathleen, who has worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants in France, added: "We want to be a key part of this community and
see ourselves here for the long-term.
"The response from the locals has been hugely positive, and we have everything crossed hoping that we can get this proposal over the line and reignite the long story of the Seven Tuns in Chedworth for its next chapter."
Elliot and Kathleen are now waiting to hear back from the current owner.
Known as a community hub, the Seven Tuns regularly hosted wedding parties, wakes, birthdays and anniversaries.
In addition, societies such as the village investment club, gardening club, tennis club and cricket club all held meetings there.
The Seven Tuns Action Group was formed to campaign for its future while the parish council nominated it for community asset status.
Last week the bid was rejected by Cotswold District Council due to lack of supporting evidence - a move which has angered villagers.
STAG chair Patricia Langley said: “How can anyone say that a pub that’s been at the heart of the community for four hundred years is not a community asset?
“We find it astonishing that CDC should have reached such a conclusion. The shop has gone, there is only one pub left in the village and now that is under threat.”
Campaigners had been planning to set up a community benefit society to buy the pub.
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