A PUB near Salisbury that was threatened with closure has now been saved thanks to a new lease being agreed.

The future of the 16th-century Barford Inn in Barford St Martin was in doubt after brewery company Hall and Woodhouse, which owns the pub, struggled to find a new licensee despite their best efforts.

But now, owner of the popular New Inn and Wig & Quill in Salisbury, Rob Wood, has agreed to take on a five-year lease of the pub.

The news has been warmly welcomed by the Barford community, who were concerned that the pub would follow the trend of many others in the country and close its doors for good.

According to the British Beer and Pub Association, more than 500 pubs closed last year.

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Rob Wood, who has been a publican for 25 years, said: “I recognised that it would be a challenge, but I wanted to make the village community proud of the pub again and bring back stability and consistency.

“It’s about getting the basics right. I know how much the village values the pub.

“I am introducing high-quality and delicious food at affordable prices with rotating seasonal specials, all created by my classically trained chef.

“Live music with top-end musicians will also be a regular Saturday night fixture. This is an iconic pub, and with my team we will do everything we can to ensure the Barford Inn has a secure future.”

As well as restoring the pub to its former glory, Rob is also providing many vital employment opportunities for local people in this rural area.

His aim is to create a well-trained team of staff who will offer an efficiently run service in the pub as well as the B&B accommodation that the pub also provides.

After a lengthy overhaul of the pub’s internal and exterior areas, Rob has been getting to know the local community and regular customers.

He has also discussed special joint events with the Barford St Martin Community Fund, a local committee which raises funds for additional amenities for village residents.

Events will include regular monthly quizzes, and the first joint event will take place on Saturday (July 12).

The day will start at 10am with a village Brocante and in the afternoon the pub will run a BBQ starting at 2pm.

Live music will be provided throughout the afternoon by several well-known local bands as part of Salisbury Live 25.

Bands playing at the pub this Saturday Picture: Barford Inn/Morag Walker MCIPR

Rob, who is keen to promote regular live music in the pub is a sponsor of Salisbury Live 25, and so hosting the different bands in the Barford Inn is something he is keen to promote.

Rob added: “It will be a fantastic afternoon of celebration to mark new beginnings, and everyone is invited to attend this free event.”

Morag Walker, chair of the Barford Community Fund, said: “We are really looking forward to working and supporting Rob and his team.

“After just a short time we can see that he has made a huge difference to the appearance and ethos of our lovely village pub.

“Our joint event on Saturday offers something for everyone, and we are looking forward to celebrating this exciting new era for the Barford Inn.”