CRADLEY residents are looking to Prince Charles for help in saving their pub.

More than 100 residents have formed an action group to save The Crown, which has been closed for 15 years.

A public meeting took place on Sunday, at the village's Royal British Legion Club.

Residents and local councillors met along with representatives from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) to discuss a planning application from owner David Woodward to redevelop the Grade II listed building into houses. Mr Woodward has said there is little business viability in reopening the pub.

Rosie Berry, leader and organiser of the group, said Prince Charles, as Duke of Cornwall, owns a lot of land around Cradley. As the prince is also a supporter of village pubs as the hub of the community, she said they were hopeful he would lend his support to their quest.

"CAMRA are going to help us all the way," she said.

"It's a community facility that the community all want."

Letters of protest from residents and a 375-signature petition have been delivered to Malvern Hills District Council ahead of the deadline for representation today (Friday).