Pulling together

Yet, thanks to their imagination and innovation, it has now reopened as a community pub. But, more importantly, it is becoming a focal point for all local residents – with part of the premises becoming a library, another public service that was in decline until North Yorkshire County Council decided to launch its mini-libraries initiative in village halls and such like.

This is the kind of pro-active approach that is crucial if Yorkshire's rural communities are to enjoy a renaissance. Local enthusiasm and expertise can go a long way, as the residents of Hudswell are demonstrating with their venture that pools resources and brings key services together under one roof.

We wish them well – it's an approach that could, and should, be replicated in villages across the region.