A popular pub has been given a protected status after regulars campaigned for it to become an asset of community value.

The Cricketers Public House in High Road, Woodford Green has been added to Redbridge council’s assets of community value list today (November 18) following a successful nomination by pub-goers.

The McMullens pub has existed just off the green since 1898.

Now the boozer is listed the owner must tell the council about any intention to sell, so that community groups can make an offer to buy it first.

Councillor Kam Rai, cabinet member for finance said: “I am very pleased that we have managed to afford the Cricketers Public house some protection and urge residents to come forward with other nominations they consider valuable to the community.

"It is important to ensure that community assets are not sold without residents’ knowledge, as the Lord Napier unfortunately was.”