THE Save the Kings Arms campaign group have published a selection of photos online showing the stage of disrepair that Kingsbridge’s only hotel has been allowed to fall into.

They have contrasted these pictures with a selection of historic photos showing the Kings Arms in better days, when it was central to community life in Kingsbridge.

The Save the Kings Arms campaign group say, ‘these pictures only increase our determination to preserve this historic building and local amenity for future generations.’

SATKA has had a whirlwind two months since local resident Rosemary Dunstan first had the idea of starting a petition to save the Kings Arms.

The petition has already attracted more than 700 signatures, more than 130 people attended a packed public meeting in February and SATKA has helped set in motion a series of South Hams Conversations to stimulate debate about the long-term future of the area.

Most importantly, last month a representative for the Reuben Brothers was persuaded to meet with members of SATKA, Kingsbridge Town Council, South Hams Council and the Kingsbridge and Salcombe Chamber of Commerce.

The Gazette understands that as a result, the owners have agreed to carry out emergency repairs to the building.

SATKA’s primary purpose is to ensure that the views of local people are fully heard in the discussions about the future of the Kings Arms. And local resident Philip Cole has set up a website and Facebook page to help achieve this.

Under the leadership of former director of Burt’s Crisps, Nick Hurst, SATKA will promote a positive vision of the Kings Arms as an important asset for the town’s future, based on five key principles: ‘Keep a pub/restaurant in the upper part of the town; provide community facilities - a function room, meeting space etc.; retain some hotel accommodation in the town; preserve as much of the historical character of the building as possible (not just the façade); and create long-term local employment.’

Finally, Martyn Fray and Rick Marchand - founder of Marchand Petit - will ensure that the idea of community ownership is properly examined as one option for controlling the use of the Kings Arms.

SATKA is now seeking photos and stories that show how the Kings Arms has served and benefited the community for more than 200 years.

Chair of SATKA Alison Murdoch said: ‘The SATKA committee would like to thank all the many local people who are offering their time and skills to help save the South Hams’ oldest coaching inn for the benefit of residents and visitors.

‘Please join us, and stay in touch with the campaign by signing up for mailings on the website.’

Visit www.savethekingsarms.org.uk to see some wonderful old photos that have already been provided by the Cookworthy Museum.

If you have any photos or stories to share, please contact [email protected].