A threatened pub which has served the community for 183 years has been saved from closure.

Scott Randall and Andrew Zacharia have pledged to keep the character of the Travellers’ Friend in High Road, Woodford Green, after confirming the purchase on Friday.

The pub was placed on the market when owner Bramwell Pubs collapsed with massive debts and there were fears it could be sold off for development.

But the two Woodford Green-based businessmen, who own Randall Zacharia Ltd, stepped in to secure its future and will also run former Bramwell-owned Warren Wood in Epping New Road, Buckhurst Hill.

Mr Randall, who has lived in the area for 44 years, said: “We have always maintained that so long as the building is under our control, and we have no intention of ever selling, then it shall always remain a public house.

“This building will not be a block of flats in a year’s time as some people feared.

“The idea of buying this property was conceived over ten years ago. Now we have it, it won't take us ten years to get right.

“There will be subtle changes but we shall endeavour to maintain its wonderful character. Any ideas or suggestions are welcomed - we want to hear from the locals.

“Admittedly the place needs a bit of love and a few changes here and there, but our main aim is to pull back the punters that used to be here as well as bringing in new crowds.”

A total of 78 pubs were affected when Bramwell went tinto administration in October with debts of £111 million.

The Travellers Friend Landlady refused to comment on the sale.