PORTLOE’S historic Ship Inn lives to sail another day as a community-owned pub, and the public is being invited to help chart its course.

Having raised over £400,000 to secure the freehold, locals are now calling for continued support to fund the next stage of its revival and find a tenant to run the venue.

Built as a 17th-century fisherman’s cottage, The Ship became a pub around the turn of the 20th century. Its potential sale in December 2024 sparked a groundswell of concern that its loss would deal another blow to a once-bustling village struggling to retain its identity in the modern age.

The Portloe Community Benefit Society Limited (PCBS) was formed in April to purchase and manage the pub as a community-owned asset. Owner St Austell Brewery accepted an offer, subject to contract, and the historic venue is now set to undergo improvements to its interior and menu, sourcing food and drink locally to offer high-quality meals and beverages.

The PCBS has launched a crowdfunding campaign and a raffle with prizes donated by local supporters - including stays in several beautiful Portloe properties, and a £150 voucher for Philleigh Way Cookery School.

“We’re thrilled that we’ve already raised over £400,000 through pledges,” said PCBS volunteer member Steve Hammett. “This has allowed us to buy the pub, but we still need help to reach our full goal and secure the future of The Ship Inn.

“We want to preserve a historic building that reflects Portloe’s maritime past while making it fit for the future. By supporting local producers, tradespeople and fishermen, The Ship will create jobs, keep money circulating locally, and attract visitors throughout the year - not just in the summer months.”

To support this campaign or express an interest in the tenancy, visit www.saveourship.co.uk.