Southwark charity looks to buy more local pubs

The United St Saviour's Charity has long owned the freeholds of The Wheatsheaf and The Market Porter pubs in Stoney Street close to Borough Market.

Earlier this year the charity snapped up the building which houses the Simon the Tanner pub in Long Lane.

The rental income that is received from the three pubs helps to support Southwark pensioners at two almshouses and local community organisations through large and small grants.

Now United St Saviour's has signalled its intent to buy more local pubs as it bolsters its property portfolio.

Cllr Tim McNally, chair of finance & property at the charity, said: "Too many local pubs are being lost as they are sold to developers and converted into housing. This has to stop and we are committed to trying to preserve pubs as pubs in our area.

"We have resources to purchase more and thus help assure their future as Free Houses. We're actively pursuing several opportunities in SE1, SE16 and SE17 but would love to hear about any opportunity as soon as possible.

"As Southwark's oldest charity with a 500 year history here we are taking a long term view about investment in developing and maintaining the local community – pubs are an integral part of bringing the community together."

Anyone who knows of "historic and iconic public houses" in North Southwark and Bermondsey which are on the market should contact Jim Wintour on 020 7089 9014.

• Story updated 19 June with quote from Cllr McNally