CAMPAIGNERS are today celebrating a major breakthrough in their battle to secure the future of a pub.

The Anchor Inn has been listed as a community asset following fears it could be sold off by Enterprise Inns in a move that might result in its closure.

The decision will make it easier for locals to bid for the Totton pub themselves if it goes on the market.

It follows a similar move to save Southampton’s Bittern pub, which is under threat from plans to turn the building into a McDonald’s.

Southampton City Council agreed to list the pub as an “asset of community value” and threw out the McDonald’s scheme. The fast food chain has lodged an appeal, which will be heard at a public inquiry.

The campaign to safeguard the Anchor Inn has been led by Andrew Pope, Labour’s parliamentary candidate in next year’s General Election.

Mr Pope said: “New Forest East Labour instigated the listing following discussions with residents and other pub-goers, who were concerned that the pub was under threat of sale by Enterprise Inns.

“New Forest East Labour submitted the application on behalf of more than 100 residents, who signed a petition supporting the application.”

Mr Pope has written a celebratory letter to people living near the Anchor following New Forest District Council decision to back the campaign.

The letter says: “The pub has been a key part of the Eling community for many years, with customers coming from near and far.

“The council has now officially recognised this. The pub can stay at the heart of the community for many years to come.”

A spokesman for Conservative-controlled New Forest District Council confirmed the authority had awarded the Anchor community value status.

She added: “The pub provides the community with a place for meetings and celebrating occasions such as christenings. It also hosts events such as a regular quiz night.

“We’ve agreed to list it because, in the council’s opinion, its current use furthers the social wellbeing or social interests of the local community.”

Explaining the listing process she added: “Once an asset has been listed nothing more will happen until the owner decides to dispose of the land.

“An owner wishing to dispose of a listed asset must inform the council in writing. The council then advises community groups, who have six weeks to advise the council whether they wish to be treated as a potential bidder.

“If the council receives a valid request then the owner cannot dispose of the land for six months.

“During this time the community group can formulate its bid and seek finance.”

An Enterprise Spokesperson said “We can confirm that the Anchor Inn has been listed as an asset of community value following a nomination process instigated by a passionate and longstanding regular customer.

“The Anchor is a great pub, trading in the heart of its community and we hope that local residents continue to visit and show their support.”