Residents have submitted a formal application that could give them time to raise funds and buy The Ampleforth Arms in Risinghurst.

CS Lewis’ former watering hole shut its doors after more than 70 years last month and since, residents have persuaded the parish council to apply to Oxford City Council to make the pub a value of community asset.

If granted, the sale of the pub will be frozen for six months - giving a chance for members of the community to raise funds and potentially buy it themselves.

The council was sent the application last week and is investigating the request.