CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save a Fulford pub will meet on Thursday to stop last orders being called for the final time.

Regulars fear The Saddle Inn, in Main Street, could be turned into a Co-Op after it was one of 202 pubs purchased by New River Retail in November last year.

A planning application is yet to be submitted to convert the premises but residents and councillors are acting now.

Cllr Keith Aspden, Liberal Democrat councillor for Fulford, has called a public meeting for 7.30pm at Fulford Social Hall, in School Lane.

Cllr Aspden said: "I have spoken to local residents who have a number of concerns about the plans.

"These include the loss of a popular local pub, the loss of a historic building, and the impact new development could have on traffic levels and the character of Fulford.

"This public meeting will allow residents to discuss the proposals and decide how we can best respond as a local community.

"It is important that we work together to try to prevent the closure of another local pub in York and inappropriate development in Fulford."

The Press's Be Vocal For Your Local campaign is attempting to stop companies converting pubs into shops without applying for planning permission.

The campaign calls on City of York Council to protect pubs and give locals a say on the future of their favourite drinking holes.