RESIDENTS of Little Haven have launched a campaign to save their favourite pub.

Rumours abound that Southampton-based owners Celtic Inns are to sell the Swan Inn, a landmark in the seaside village for over 200 years, following the retirement of the current licensees.

It is believed that a condition of the sale might mean the historic pub would cease trading and be converted into a residential property.

"Local people are up in arms," said one resident. "The Swan Inn is Little Haven and Little Haven is the Swan Inn."

"Wherever you go, someone always knows the Swan. It will be an absolute travesty," said another.

Chairman of the community council, Ian Trevithick, said: "It is such a shame, but the community appear to have no say. It is a case of a completely impersonal brewery cashing in on its assets."

Seventy-seven-year-old Barbara Chester was born in the Swan as her parents ran the former James Williams house until 1947.

"It does seem very strange," said Mrs Chester, "Whenever I come back here, I always call into the Swan and it would be such a shame to lose it."

Duncan Murray, managing director of Celtic Inns, said: "The current tenants are retiring soon and any decision is on hold as it is a sensitive time for them."

He said the sale would be 'a standard retirement sale', adding all things were possible as no decision had yet been made on the pub's future.

Residents have now launched a petition to save the Swan.