A North Yorkshire pub has been given community asset status after council officials agreed that it was a thriving village hub.
The local parish council applied for The Dawnay Arms, in Shipton by Beningbrough, near York, to be given the listing, which allows community groups a chance to bid for the asset if it is put up for sale.
The parish council said in its nomination to North Yorkshire Council that the pub had various community uses including quiz nights and bingo sessions, live music, charity events and an annual beer and music festival.
It was a meeting place for various clubs, including a book club, craft club and darts team, and offers discounted meals for the elderly.
The parish council said the pub, which was the only one in the village, was also regularly used by various local organisations such as the playground committee, community centre committee and a local branch of the Women’s Institute.
It added: “The locals consider it to be a valuable asset that delivers a high-quality service; that enhances the social well-being and interests of the local community, which they want to protect and cherish; not just for the pub’s current patrons, but as a public house that will appeal to and serve future generations.”
The parish council also highlighted The Dawnay Arms as a “financially viable” village pub and noted the success of the pub over the last five years.
In order for a nomination to be successful, an asset must be found to further the social well-being or social interests of the local community.
Council officers visited the pub, which is owned by Punch Partnerships, last month and confirmed the pub was well used by local residents.
Their report noted: “The building was in good condition and well decorated throughout. The signage on the outside of the building showed opening hours and advertised regular quiz nights.
“The entrance way to the front of The Dawnay Arms held a notice board with various leaflets/posters showing upcoming events/activities.
“Within the pub, there was evidence of community book borrowing, and posters/leaflets for various activities and events at the pub.”
On the weekday lunchtime the officers visited, there were several older customers eating and drinking in the pub.
The report added: “An informal discussion with the proprietor confirmed the pub was well-used by the local community, particularly by older people, and was an important social place for the local community.
“The proprietor confirmed a number of events and activities organised by the pub, some of which were held off-site and were primarily held as fundraising activities for local causes.”
The council report concluded that the nomination and information available provided enough evidence that the pub met the criteria to become a community asset.