OFFICIAL protection has been given to an historic Riddlesden pub following a request by real ale drinkers.

Keighley Area Committee agreed to CAMRA’s request for the Willow Tree to be listed as an Asset of Community Value.

The Keighley and Craven branch of CAMRA – the Campaign for Real Ale – sees the pub as ‘at risk’, even though it is still trading and is due to be refurbished in the New Year.

The Willow Tree was the latest building in Bradford district to be considered for ACV status, following successful recent applications for the former Wilsden Post Office and the Cross Roads Park toilets.

As an ACV, the owner of the Willow Tree cannot sell it without telling Bradford Council. If this happens, community groups will be given up to six months to raise money to put in a bid to buy it.

A CAMRA spokesman said: “Some years ago, a planning application to turn the pub into residential accommodation was refused and the pub has continued trading since. Keighley and Craven CAMRA wish that to continue, as the community can benefit from the facilities at the pub.”

The Willow Tree, in Ilkley Road, is currently trading successfully, and has an active calendar of entertainments and events.

The pub was originally due to close for refurbishment on October 31, but following customer feedback, the date has been postponed until the New Year.