Publicans in Abingdon fear more pub closures if the national cut-price chain JD Wetherspoon moves in to the town early next year.

Landlords and bar managers are considering objecting to the conversion of the old Congregational Church in The Square.

In an unprecedented move, 16 licensees met in the Brewery Tap pub in Ock Street.

Landlord of the Brewery Tapp, Matthew Heritage, said: "No-one minds competition but there's a fear in the licensed trade it will be difficult to match Wetherspoon prices and Abingdon could see more pubs close."

The publicans want guidance from the national Licensed Victuallers Association and will examine whether -- as a licensing stipulation -- Wetherspoon would not be able to sell beer at too low a price.

Wetherspoon dismissed fears that competitors would be wiped out. Spokesman Eddie Gershon said: "We will be another attraction and generate more custom for everyone. This smacks of anti-competitiveness."

In the past 15 years, ten pubs have closed in the central area of Abingdon.

But some pub regulars welcome the prospect of a Wetherspoon pub.

Todd Churchman, from Ock Street, Abingdon, said: "It's time for a shake-up in prices."

Abingdon Town Council has given its blessing to Wetherspoon. The Vale of White Horse District Council has not received any objections so far and the application could be approved without public debate.