Praise for 80s music legend aiming to save historic village pub

The Rose & Thistle in Haddenham near Thame is the subject of a campaign to raise £750,000.

Villagers are aiming to reopen the historic coaching inn, which dates back to the 18th century, but closed in 2019.

At the time of writing, The Rose & Thistle Reborn campaign has raised over £65,000, which is around 10 per cent of the required total sum.

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The Rose & Thistle in Haddenham (Image: The Rose & Thistle Reborn)

Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley has joined the push to save the pub, urging people to buy shares to back the crowdfunding campaign.

The singer, who had bestselling hits with Spandau Ballet, including Gold, True, Communication, and Lifeline, said: “I am wholeheartedly, absolutely supporting the community of Haddenham in trying to get The Rose & Thistle back open again.

“It’s a fantastic little pub – I have been there many times in the past. We have to preserve our village and small town pubs.”

The response to the scheme and Mr Hadley getting involved has been largely positive this week, with members of the public commending the musician.

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Tony Hadley. (Image: Paul Strange)

Commenting on the GB News report of the Spandau Ballet’s drive to reopen the watering hole, one person said: “Good on you mate.”

Another added: “Baron Hadley of Haddenham has a nice ring to it.”

“I don’t actually think Mr Hadley is as wealthy as you might think, which makes his efforts all the more noble,” said a third.

Further praise came as another person remarked: “Good on him, I hope the fundraising works.”

Others called it “great news” while some across the internet made Spandau Ballet-themed puns to react to the singer’s involvement.

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The crowdfunding campaign says: “The Rose & Thistle is an iconic pub in the heart of the conservation area of Haddenham, by the village green and opposite St Mary’s Church – a place that has hosted countless meals, celebrations, conversations and chance encounters over the years.

“Tragically, Rose & Thistle closed in 2019 and, while the current owners had hoped to reopen, it is now for sale and at risk of being sold to developers and converted to a residential property.

“And once a pub is turned into a house, it’s almost impossible to bring it back.

“We’re not here to be alarmist – but we are being honest: this is a time-limited opportunity. If we do nothing, we may lose the pub for good. We need your help to stop it from being last orders at The Rose & Thistle.”