A COMMUNITY which has fought to save its pub which they say has "stood derelict" for six years will finally welcome back the public this weekend.

While work to reopen the pub properly is still underway, the Radnor Arms Hotel, near Kington, is holding community open day weekends so it can engage with locals and raise vital funds for the revamp.

The pub, which closed in 2016, has been bought by the Radnor Arms Action group which has been trying for six years to take over the pub in the village of New Radnor, just over the border in Powys, Wales.

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The Radnor Arms Hotel community open day weekends, H’Art Winter Weekend for Radnorshire Artists, a fundraising silent auction and a concert have all already attracted a wonderful amount of community support and interest, the group said.

It said the front rooms of the hotel and pub have been scrubbed clean by volunteers after six years of decay and it could be back open before Christmas.

Windows and doors have been opened, and fresh flowers and plants placed. Exhibition boards have been created and artworks assembled, in a show of community energy and spirit.

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Volunteers have come forward to manage the café in the hub, and mugs and Christmas cards branded “The Radnor Arms Hotel” are also available for sale, heralding a new start and a warm welcome for all, it added.

Taking place this weekend, November 26 and 27, and next weekend, December 3 and 4, more than 20 artists will be taking part, selling and exhibiting over 197 works of art.

The open days will all take place between 11am and 4pm.

On December 3 there will be a Phil Ram and the Manana Kids concert at the Iron Bar, Brookside Farm, New Radnor at 7.30pm to raise funds as well. Tickets are £10 and available on the door.

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The group said Phil is a British singer, guitarist and songwriter with several released tracks including during his membership of the band the Vibrators.

He will be joined by members of his past and present band, and other local musicians will join too, in an evening of entertainment, a celebration of the next phase for the Radnor Arms Hotel, and fundraising.

There is also an online auction which has attracted 75 lots, including at least 12 holidays, 16 works of original art, 13 experiences, nature and craft courses, 13 food and drink or dining experiences and 20 products, gifts or services.

For more information, visit www.theradnorarmshotel.com.