THE Beauchamp Arms in Dymock has a new porch to comply with rules on disabled access, thanks to its regulars.

Customers at the pub, the first community-owned hostelry in the country, worked hard and dug deep into their own pockets to raise the £3,000 cost of the work.

Landlord John Griffiths said the old porch was listed, but was falling to bits, with even the main posts rotting.

Mr Griffiths, who runs the pub with his wife Linda, said: "We now have double doors and no step, for wheelchair access."

Activities to pay for the porch were organised by the Friends of the Beauchamp Arms.

Fundraising started at Christmas 2002 with a draw. Other activities to fill the coffers included an Easter draw and a sponsored treasure hunt.

Regulars at the pub spent a year putting 5p coins in a gallon whisky bottle on the bar and this alone raised £400.

Mr Griffiths said: "We would like to say a big thank you to the regulars and the Friends."