Mystery over pub sale

The buyer has not been disclosed and the future of the closed pub (pictured) is still shrouded in uncertainty. It has been shut for months after being hit by financial problems.

Villagers are keen to see it re-opened as a pub but say that the historic building has been eyed by developers.

The Grade II-listed 18th century property was sold to a private bidder by Clive Emson Auctioneers at the Hilton Brighton Metropole last Friday (November 5).

The property is subject to the remainder of a 999-year lease from 1971, when the average house price in Britain was £5,632, a gallon of petrol cost 33p and regulars at the Royal Oak would have paid 80-90p for a pint of bitter.

James Emson, the auctioneer, said: “It is not known what plans the new owner has for the Royal Oak.”