How a village came together to buy its pub — and has kept it thriving ever since.
The Seven Stars has stood at the heart of Marsh Baldon for generations. When it faced closure, the villagers of the Baldons and Nuneham Courtenay — and friends from further afield — refused to lose it. Proving that the pub really is the hub of the community, they came together to buy it.
In 2012 they formed The Baldons & Nuneham Community Society, a community benefit society registered with the Financial Conduct Authority. A community share offer followed, and 167 founding shareholders raised the funds to purchase the pub. The Seven Stars reopened on 30 March 2013 and has been thriving ever since.
With a new, converted Dining Barn and a full calendar of events, the Seven Stars looks set to be at the heart of our community for many years to come. The Society owns the building and looks after it for the long term; the pub itself is run day-to-day by our tenants. Our job is stewardship — keeping the Seven Stars open, welcoming and central to village life.
For other communities looking to buy their local, we wish you every success — it is doable with energy and enthusiasm. We have gathered the documents and materials from our own campaign to help you on your way.