Last orders may have been called at a community pub but a campaign to get it reopened is gaining momentum.
A petition to get the beer flowing again at The Flying Saucer in Hempstead has gained 560 signatures from punters and residents alike who describe it as the “social hub of the village”.
They are urging the brewery Greene King to reconsider following its shock decision to close the venue last month.
Meanwhile, an option for the community to take over the pub is being looked at as another option with a petition to reopen the boozer gaining more than 500 signatures.
Daniel Smallbone, who started the petition, said: “The Flying Saucer pub in Hempstead, has been a cornerstone of our community since 1951.
“It is not just a place to grab a drink; it serves as a vital social hub for residents, including hosting weekly gatherings for the elderly and various events like quiz nights and live bands. Closing this beloved establishment would strip away an essential part of our local culture and community spirit. ”
Campaigner Jacqueline Power added: “The Saucer has been part of my life since moving to Kent 46 years ago.
“My family and friends have used the pub for celebrations and parties and many are not with us anymore. Please keep this social hub of the village for more to enjoy.”
Ward councillor Jim Gilbourne, who lives near the hostelry in Hempstead Road, has exchanged emails with the owners and is pushing for a face-to-face meeting so they can see firsthand what the pub means to the regulars who describe it as “the heart of the village”.
Like others, he is considering all options, including contacting alternative breweries as well as the possibility of the community taking it over, by creating what is known as an Asset of Community Value.
ACVs have proved successful at other licensed premises including The Harrow at Stockbury.
A spokesman for Greene King told KentOnline: “Closing a pub is never an easy decision, so it is with great regret that we have decided to close The Flying Saucer in Gillingham.
“The property will be returned to the freeholder and our focus will remain on supporting our team members at this time.”
Cllr Gilbourne lives behind the pub in Hempstead Road and a few years ago started a board games club which still meets at the pub every week, attracting up to 25 people.
He said: “We were all very shocked when we heard it was closing. It’s busy most evenings with a quiz night and there are darts teams.
Tom Ball, a primary school teacher who has been hosting the weekly quiz for the last five years, said everyone is “absolutely gutted”.
The 36-year-old added: “For many it’s the highlight of their week. At the last quiz this week they kept asking what are we going to do?
“We have formed a WhatsApp group and will keep in touch.
“I have been looking at other pubs but it’s important to keep it local.
“During Covid, we kept it going online. We have become a community within a community.
“Wherever we go it will always be known as The Flying Saucer quiz.”
Tory councillor Gillbourne insists they “are not giving up”.
“We want to meet the owners so we can be part of their thinking,” he added.
