Historic pub saved by community reopens

By Barrie Hudson - 28 September 2022

CommunityBusiness

The Silks on the Downs pub is open once more after being saved by local people.

Previously closed since March 2020, the Ogbourne St Andrew venue has been renovated by community members.

Working with the owner, locals came together to raise funds to buy and open the pub once again.

Almost 200 people from the area and beyond helped to raise almost £240,000.  This was match funded by the Government’s Community Ownership Fund, giving the green light for the purchase of the pub in May of this year.  

With the keys secured, a small army of volunteers worked day and night to lovingly restore the pub, giving it a warm and welcoming new lease of life as it starts its next chapter. 

Customers are once again invited to enjoy delicious food and drink and a warm welcome. The pub is managed by Cameron Thomas, formerly general manager at Hilliers Small Plates & Wine in Marlborough, who has joined forces once again with head chef Graham Corbett, who was the proprietor and head chef at Hilliers.

Cameron said: “It’s really exciting to be able to open the doors of the Silks once again.  The work that has been done to buy and refurbish the pub by the community for the community has been incredible.  

"I’m sure that customers will be blown away with how the pub looks and the warm welcome and delicious food that awaits.  We use the best of fresh local produce to create classic pub dishes with a twist.  

"We also have a range of locally sourced beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks making the Silks a space for everyone to enjoy.  I’m really looking forward to welcoming everyone." 

Stuart Williamson from Ogbourne Community Pub Society said: “The Silks on the Downs has brought together our community, including those from neighbouring villages and local towns, for over 100 years.  Even though its doors have been closed for the last two and a half years, it’s still been bringing people together, driven by a deep commitment to bring the pub back to life for the benefit of all.  

"It’s such as huge achievement and we’re all so proud and grateful of the immense contribution from so many people since we bought the pub in May this year."

The pub is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12-3pm and 6–11pm, and on Sundays from 12-5pm.

Customers can make a booking for lunch or dinner by emailing [email protected] or calling 01672 705064.  

They can view the seasonal food and drinks menu at silksonthedowns.co.uk

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