Pub buy-out order plan considered

The pub has been standing empty since 2003

A brewery that closed down a pub in south Devon three years ago could be forced to sell it so it can be reopened for the local community.

Councillors in Teignbridge will decide next week whether to issue a compulsory purchase order for Heavitree Brewery to sell the Toby Jug in Bickington.

It follows the news that a company which specialises in turning round failing pubs is keen to buy the inn.

The brewery told the council that the use of an order was "inappropriate".

Teignbridge District Council leader Alan Connett said he would prefer not to go down the route of applying for an order, but said the authority would do so if necessary.

After the pub closed in 2003, villagers complained that they had lost an important focal point.