Villagers living in Tunstall are hoping that final orders haven’t been called at their local watering hole.

The Green Man pub in the village has been closed since November 2017. It was recently put up for sale and is being marketed as having development potential.

Villagers are unhappy with the potential change of use of the land and are hoping that a new landlord will spot the pub and take a chance on it.

“Tunstall doesn’t need any more houses,” said one resident, “there are 33 presently being built in the village and lots of families here already; what we really need is a village pub.”

A pub has existed in Tunstall since 1828. Villagers think that the pub is well located and should appeal to potential landlords because of its large garden, car park and traditional village pond.

The pub also sits on the direct route from Woodbridge to Snape and Aldeburgh.

Residents believe that the pub could become a hub of village life and include other amenities in the future such as a shop or meeting venue.

A petition online to save the pub from permanent closure has gained nearly 200 signatures.

“It’s a great shame that things haven’t worked out for the present owners,” said a spokesperson from Tunstall Parish Council.

“Many residents have contacted us to say they really want the pub to re-open, citing local establishments such as the Blaxhall Ship, and Butley Oyster as the type of pub they would like.

“With 33 more families moving in to the village in the next few months and no traditional pub in our neighbouring village of Rendlesham, there ought to be scope for a pub in this area.”

The parish council will be holding a public meeting to discuss the future of the pub next week.

The council say that plans are being considered to bid for the pub under the asset of community value scheme, as has been done with other pubs in Suffolk.

Those wishing to take part in such a scheme as well as restaurant and existing pub owners are being encouraged to attend.

The meeting will take place on Saturday, September 15 at 10am in Tunstall Community Centre.

For more information about the meeting contact Tunstall Parish Council clerk Judi Hallett on 01394 411405 or email pcclerktunstall@gmail.com.