Comedians have backed a campaign for a landmark pub to remain open to the community.

Since The Heathcote Arms in Grove Green Road, Leytonstone, closed last month, a group of residents have been calling for Waltham Forest council to ensure it remains a pub.

Stonegate Ltd said it has sold the venue but has refused to reveal the new owner.

The pub, believed to have been built in 1905, is famous for its jazz and comedy nights.

Alan Davies, most famous as a panel member on BBC’s QI, often performed at the Heathcote.

He said: "Sad to hear that the Heathcote may be lost as a comedy venue. I always enjoy my gigs in Leytonstone. Hopefully it can continue as a pub.”

Perrier Comedy Award winner Sean Hughes also backed the campaign.

He said: "It is a very nice pub and should stay that way to remain part of the community"

Leytonstone resident Emma Griffiths was one of the founders of the Save the Heathcote campaign.

She said: “The London Borough of Waltham Forest has lost a significant number of pubs over the past few years which are key to our community cohesion and development.

“Sadly, the people that live here are often powerless to fight these loses until it is too late - which is why we started this campaign.

“For many of us the threat of the demolition or a change of use of the century old Heathcote Arms is the final straw.

“Whilst the council and our MP John Cryer have already pledged their support for the campaign, the petition is calling on them to act upon this and issue an Article 4 Direction immediately whilst we are still in the unique position to stop this huge loss.”