PROTESTORS who fought to save their New Forest pub say they have given up hope of seeing their beloved boozer back in business.

The Ashley Hotel, which first opened its doors in the 1920s, is due to be transformed into a convenience store after the property was sold to new owners.

On Monday evening around fifty locals gathered outside the popular pub to protest against its closure.

Kelly Beard, who organised the campaign, said the Ashley Hotel, the only pub in the village, was at the heart of the local community.

She said: “We loved the pub. It was like a second home to some of us. On Sundays we all used to go in there in the afternoons.

“We used to have quizzes, discos, weddings, christenings and birthday parties there. There has always been a strong sense of community here."

She added: “We held the protest so we could voice our opinion. We don’t want another shop in Ashley.”

Mrs Beard said it was hoped the new owners would lease the pub back to the landlord.

But after learning the landlord, Craig Galpin, wouldn’t take up a lease even if one was offered, the protestors say they have lost all hope of seeing the pub re-opened.

Mrs Beard said: “We wanted to save the pub but we have spoken to the landlord and he said even if they did lease it back to him he wouldn’t take it.

“We are gutted. We have stopped the campaign. There’s nothing else we can do.”

The 33-year-old said locals were devastated after the pub closed its doors for the last time on March 9. More than 100 regulars crowded into the bar to say farewell to staff and mourn the passing of their favourite meeting place, which once owned by former Saints and Arsenal footballer Charlie George.

Mrs Beard said: “It was like a big family. If anyone had a problem you could go into the pub and you know there would be someone there to talk to and if anybody from outside the community came in they were always made to feel welcome.

“We will all really miss it. All we want is a pub in Ashley.”

Admiral Taverns sold the pub to Salisbury-based Culverhill Retail, which is planning to convert the building into a shop. The new store is expected to create up to 20 jobs.