CONCERNED Kingsclere villagers have launched a petition to retain the name of an historic village pub.

The Swan Hotel, in Swan Street, is thought to date back to the 15th century, and is much-loved by its many loyal patrons.

The property, comprised of two Grade II listed buildings, was taken over last year by company Longshot Country Inns, and has undergone an extensive refurbishment.

But a proposal by the new owners to rename the pub Bel and The Dragon has raised a few eyebrows.

Kingsclere resident Heath Denness said a petition was being set up locally to gather signatures of those who support the retention of the traditional name.

Mrs Denness said: “Pub names are among those details of British life that embody history, and the village could lose its identity, especially Swan Street, and its heritage, if the name is changed.

“A significant number of village residents have expressed their concern over the possible name changes and that number is increasing daily.”

If the name is changed the pub will become one of seven Bel and The Dragon pubs run by Longshot Country Inns.

Mrs Denness said: “The Swan Hotel is an integral part of our village history and the company cannot really care about the historic significance of the name if they decide to rename it.”

The parish council has already lodged its objection to the proposed change, pointing out that The Swan was named in the Doomsday Book, and has links to historic royals.

In raising the issue with borough council planning officers, a council statement said: “There would be considerable opposition to a change of name.”

Mrs Denness said that representatives from Longshot Country Inns had agreed to a meeting about the name change.

She said: “I hope that they will listen to our concerns. There is very strong feeling in the village about this.”

Longshot Country Inns did not respond to a request for a comment by the time The Gazette went to press.