MORE than 90 people attended a public meeting to try to save an historic Teignbridge village pub.

The meeting, held in Cockwood Parish Room, was an attempt to drum up support for the Ship Inn.

There was ‘overwhelming’ agreement to support further exploration into buying the 17th century pub with the aim of running it as a community pub.

The idea comes villagers in nearby Kenton launched a share off for a similar scheme for its village pub, The Dolphin.

Meeting organisers in Cockwood thanked everyone who contributed.

A spokesman said: ‘There were in excess of 90 people who overwhelmingly agreed to support further exploration of purchasing The Ship as a community pub and hub.

‘The hard work now begins, starting with establishing a web site and a committee.

‘Further details to follow once again thank you for your huge support.

‘It's good news that so many folk bothered to turn up to support the idea of a Community Pub.’

Dawlish town councillors have already agreed to apply to register the pub as a Community Asset.

The cob-built pub suffered extensive damage in the autumn of 2023 when one of the side walls collapsed during Storm Ciaran.

Following the town council’s decision, it will now be submitted to Teignbridge Council to be registered in recognition of its significance to the local community.

That decision followed concerns over its future and potential sale.

The pub needs significant rebuilding and may be put on the market with a reported guide price of £50,000.

This does not include the costs of rebuilding and substantial repairs.

By registering the pub as a community asset under the Localism Act, the listing lasts for up to five years.

This means if the owner decides to sell, the district council must be notified.

This triggers a six-week moratorium period during which community interest may be registered.

If a community group wishes to bid, a six-month moratorium applies to allow time to prepare a bid.