CAMRA has released the first episode of its new three-part community pubs documentary series, celebrating people who have banded together to save their locals.
The series highlights the challenges and complexities faced by the campaigning groups, shedding a light on the process of buying and running a community pub.
The opening episode stars Tottenham’s longest-established working pub, the Antwerp Arms (above). Facing demolition in 2013, the community and CAMRA campaigners saved it to become North London’s first community-owned pub in 2015.
Episodes two and three will follow in late November and early December, starring the Traveller’s Rest in Skeeby, North Yorkshire and then the Yr Heliwr in Nefyn, Wales.
Partnering with Plunkett UK, the films feature on CAMRA’s Learn and Discover education platform. The new series was produced and filmed by Katie Greenhalf, This Film and Rachel Auty, Cameron Rae Consultancy and founder of Women On Tap CIC.
The first episode is available to watch on Learn and Discover here.
The films are being published as the government is introducing laws to give communities in England a legal right to buy community assets including their pub.
CAMRA Pub and Club Campaigns director Gary Timmins said: “Whether it’s a busy high street or a small village, when a pub closes, the community loses its beating heart. Campaigners who fight to save their locals deserve recognition. Our three-part film series is a great way to share these stories and celebrate volunteers across the UK. We want this documentary to encourage people to see community ownership as an option for saving their own local.
“Released as parliament is debating new laws giving people a new right to buy community assets including pubs, these heartfelt films are a timely reminder that government needs to step up and give funding to community groups looking to take on ownership of their local pub when it is under threat of closure or conversion.”
Rachel Auty added: “I loved meeting the committees, teams and locals at each of the three community pubs. It's been a real honour. Hearing their stories and learning more about their communities has been brilliant, and I've been overwhelmed by the passion, tenacity, care and skill I've witnessed in all of our conversations.
“I've always believed that pubs are an essential part of society, and now more than ever we need these local places of togetherness and belonging. These films reflect that.
"Working with Katie at This Film as one of the most talented, warm and creative filmmakers I know has been a joy, and we are both really proud of the final edits. I can't wait for people to see them!"
