I WANT to thank the Gazette for a fair and balanced article and editorial comment in last week’s paper on pages 8 and 9 regarding the delay to the opening of the Kings Head pub in Pebmarsh.

As one of the ward councillors for the Colnes, I am full of admiration for the way in which this small community has managed to raise a considerable sum of money in a relatively short space of time to save the pub from closure.

It is a very commendable effort and demonstrates the best of village life.

It is, indeed, unfortunate that the opening has to be delayed but it is very important that the correct planning permission is obtained for the intended work on this listed building.

I can assure the Friends of the King’s Head that the planning team at Braintree District Council will work with them to bring this about as soon as is practically possible.

I am sure that we all look forward to the grand opening of the ‘new’ King’s Head later in the year and raising a glass to toast the success of this community endeavour!

Cllr Gabrielle Spray

District Councillor, the Colnes Ward