Residents in Ash are fighting to save a historic pub from plans which could see it turned into housing.

Matthew Titterton, 37, of The Street, Ash, is leading the Save The Chequer Inn campaign following an application to close it as a pub.

Dover District Council received many objections to the application and any decision has now been stalled until a hearing in January.

More than 130 residents gathered at the village hall last week to discuss the next steps and the fight ahead.

Mr Titterton said: “It’s heart-breaking to think that a wonderful historic pub that has been the heart of the community for well over 300 years can stay closed.

“The recent community group meeting highlighted the massive weight of support that a new, high quality public house would benefit from in the village.

“The local voices at the meeting were keen to have a venue that was not sport and beer specific but that would provide a community focus as a venue for the many groups and clubs in the surrounding area.”

The Grade II listed 15th century coach house could be turned into a house and garage, and another house placed in the garden.

Residents have completed an Asset of Community Value nomination which if accepted means DDC would have to list the pub as a community asset.

Mr Titterton claims DDC did place a ACV on the pub but this was removed after opposition from developers.

Deal resident and actor Neil Stuke has also been supporting the campaign, and parliamentary group Save the Pub also strongly objects to the proposal.

In a report, it said: “The Chequer is a 15th century building and designated heritage asset, and keeping it as a pub ensures that the entire community has access to this heritage, rather than limiting it to two wealthy householders. The Chequer’s use as a pub is a key part of its character as a heritage building.

“Allowing this viable pub to be changed into residential housing would be an act of vandalism, as well as destroying this ancient community facility.”

In a design and access statement, developers claim The Chequer Inn was not a viable business and this is why previous owners put it up for sale.

Mr Titterton claims it had a turnover of £12,000 a month before it closed but rent and beer costs led to it being unsuccessful.

Mr Stuke, who has starred in dramas Silk and Doctor Foster, is keen to restore a closed down pub like this.

Mr Titterton said: “His skills and commitment to saving our heritage make him the perfect choice to front a project like this and we’re lucky to have him as the face of our campaign.

“There have been a few meetings with broadcasters and, due to the background story we have, and the sense of community from our village, The Chequer Inn is high on their list.”

n For more information visit the Facebook page savethechequerinn and @SaveChequerInn on Twitter.