The owners of an historic village pub in south Bucks appear to have made a dramatic U-turn over the property's name after villagers started a campaign to prevent it from being changed.

Plans were believed to be in place for the Chequers Inn in Prestwood - which is currently being refurbished - to be renamed 'The Prestwood'.

But after residents voiced anger over the move, which they say ignores the pub's 250-year history, owner Greene King has appeared to change its mind after confirming it will be called 'The Chequers Tree'.

Campaigners seemed to have welcomed the news.

Mark Wingrove, chair of the Prestwood Village Association, said: "It is a victory for the village.

"I am sure that people will be happy with the new name, it made no sense to call it The Prestwood."

The pub is believed to date back to the mid 1700s and counts post-war Prime Minister Clement Attllee among its former regulars and the current Chequers Inn sign was inaugurated by Harold Wilson.

A spokesman for Greene King said: "We are in the process of a major refurbishment at the Chequers in Prestwood, which will transform it into a modern and attractive pub to visit for a meal or a drink.

"Together with our new experienced licensees who will be running this business, we have been considering ways we can reflect this positive new start for the pub, including a change of name.

"After much consideration and having listened to the concerns of some people in the community regarding the pub’s heritage, the pub will re-launch as The Chequers Tree, and we would like to thank local residents for all their comments and their considerable passion for our pub."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What do you think about The Chequers Tree? Post your comments below or email william.burton@london.newsquest.co.uk.