Shocked pub-goers are protesting against the closure of their local as it faces being converted into a shop and flats.

The Woodman Inn on Colchester Road, Halstead, could be converted into a Co-op foodstore it emerged at a council meeting on Thursday.

Six people could lose their jobs if the pub, which is owned by Punch Taverns, is sold for redevelopment.

An online petition, started by regulars to the pub, has already gained 143 signatures in the space of 24 hours.

Read the full story in this week's Halstead Gazette.