SEDGLEY councillor Bill Etheridge has called a public meeting as part of a concerted campaign to save The Seven Stars pub.

The event has been organised after the Bristol-based Planning Inspectorate overturned Dudley Council’s decision to refuse Marston’s Estates Ltd planning permission to extend the pub on Gospel End Road as part of proposals to turn it into a Morrisons food store.

This decision was made despite a successful campaign to secure the pub Asset of Community Value (ACV) status.

Cllr Etheridge is urging people to pack out the pub during the meeting to send out a “strong message to Marstons and Morrisons that the fight to safeguard the long-term future of the pub will continue”.

The UKIP MEP said it is "vitally important" for members of the community to attend the public meeting which will be held at the pub at 7.30pm on Tuesday (August 4).

He said: “I urge as many people of possible to attend this meeting and in turn send out a strong message to Morrisons and Marstons that we don’t want to lose the Seven Stars as a result of corporate greed.

“The Seven Stars is a fantastic asset to the community as it is a true community pub which raises money for good causes and provides a friendly environment to have a good natter over a drink.

“I am determined to ensure the views of local people are heard and next week’s public meeting is just part of that process.”