A village pub which closed 12 months ago could be reopened as a community hub.

A campaign by villagers in Llanbedr DC is expected to result in the purchase of the Griffin Inn to an unnamed local resident who would then lease it to a community management company.

The hotel, a Grade II listed building alongside the Mold – Ruthin road closed in February, 2017, with the loss of eight jobs, and was put up for sale by owners Robinson Brewery.

In the 1960s the inn was the home of soprano Joan Carlyle, who became one of the stars of Covent Garden Opera Company and an international celebrity.

Local residents, with the backing of the community council, immediately launched a bid to convert the premises into a community hub and sought advice from those behind the successful project in nearby Llanarmon-yn-Ial, where villagers took over the Raven Inn.

An outline business plan has been drawn up by the rural enterprise agency Cadwyn Clwyd following a survey which revealed a relatively high level of support among local residents.

Of the 42% of residents who responded 82% felt that the inn was important to the village and many ideas were put forward for events and activities which could take place there.

“One of the clear indications from the survey was that people wanted to be supportive, but felt that the décor and atmosphere needed updating - and good food preparation was essential,” says the report.

It is estimated that the upgrading would cost about £150,000, with the money being raised bny the sale of £1 shares, a possible council loan and grants from bodies such as Visit Wales and the National Lottery.

The café and accommodation would be managed by the local society but would be offered for tender.

“The vision is to create a central focal point for village life which will act as a catalyst to reignite a sense of community in Llanbedr DC,” says the report.

“Over the past few years the village has lost its village shop and post office, and the village school has been under threat of closure.”

Denbighshire County Council voted to close the school but after strong protests the decision was overturned by the Welsh Government. Since then, although pupil numbers have risen, it is still the policy of the authority to go ahead with the closure.

“Bringing the Griffin Inn into community management will ensure the success and sustainability of the business by enabling the community to develop the facilities to meet their needs, rather than serving the higher financial margins of a brewery,” said Cadwyn Clwyd’s consultants Julia Masters and Amanda Brewer.