A community campaign to save a historic Welsh pub, backed by Hollywood star Matthew Rhys, has reached its fundraising goal.

The campaign to save the historic Glan yr Arfon pub in Pennal, near Machynlleth, has reached its fundraising goal of £250,000.

The campaign, launched in August 2022, aimed to bring the ownership of the Grade II building to the community and re-develop it after the former owners opted to sell the property.

Chairman of the Menter Y Glan management committee, Meirion Roberts, said: “It was not just about saving a pub, it was about saving the very hub and heart of the village. It has been a long haul and nothing has been easy but our perseverance has led us over the line.

“There are so many people we need to thank for their ongoing help and support - Hannah at Compass Cymru, The Plunkett Foundation, Co-operatives UK, Heritage Cymru, The WCVA, Four Cymru and Matthew Rhys have all been especially supportive.”

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The Hollywood actor landed his support to the campaign due to his strong family ties with the area, visiting the pub earlier this year.

Mr Rhys said: “It was great visiting the pub recently and seeing first hand all the great work they have been doing to keep this historic pub and local community hub alive.”

Meirion Roberts added: “The aim was to save the pub and I feel really proud that a small community of just 150 homes has been successful against all the odds in reaching its financial target in today’s economic climate.

“The community as a whole has shown what can be achieved with hard work and determination. It will not be easy and it will be a steep learning curve but I feel that the community spirit we have will make it work.

“We have achieved our target and realised the community’s dream of saving the community hub of Glan yr Afon in time for Christmas. We hope to reopen the business in early February and will shortly be advertising for a manager. Please do get in touch if you would like to help or work for us.”