VILLAGERS are celebrating the opening of their pub after they saved it from closure.

Cheers erupted from the crowd as The Seven Stars in Marsh Baldon – which is more than 350 years old – was officially opened on Saturday by the previous owner, London investment company Winton Capital Management founder David Harding, who had sold it to residents.

More than 70 villagers clubbed together at the end of last year to raise more than £110,000, and they formed a company called The Baldons and Nuneham Community Society Limited to buy the pub and refurbish it.

After the pub rescue was featured in the Oxford Mail in January, Botley publican Matt Ford came forward to run it as its landlord.

Baldons and Nuneham Community Society chairman Liz Jones said: “Some put money in, others hard work. Thanks to everyone working together we have got our pub back.”

Mr Harding said: “I am delighted the Seven Stars is open again and is owned by the local community. I look forward to enjoying a pint there for years to come.”

For more information, see sevenstarsonthegreen.co.uk