A campaign to reopen a much-loved pub in Hampton got a huge boost at a packed public meeting earlier this month (4 June). 

There was a lot of enthusiasm for a community buyout of The Railway Bell, nicknamed The Dip, which closed in April last year. More than 100 people attended the 'Save The Dip' meeting at the Hampton Hub.

A show of hands confirmed that many attendees are eager to contribute towards the goal of reopening the pub and reintegrating it into the heart of the Hampton community.

The campaign meeting saw over 100 locals attend (Image supplied)

It is for sale at £1 million and the campaign is keen to hear from more interested investors. The plan is to raise capital through a Community Benefit Society. Investors could buy shares, probably in units of £100.

An application for the pub to be designated an Asset of Community Value is being considered by Richmond Council.

The campaign has seen an intense publicity drive, and the WhatsApp group has more than 450 followers. 

Campaign leader Robert Lee, who presented a slideshow about progress and future plans at the meeting, said: "I was so gratified by the big turnout and the tremendous community support for bringing such a treasured pub back into the heart of the community. This campaign is going from strength to strength."

To find out more about the campaign and learn how you can contribute, email [email protected]