Prince William has donated a thousand pounds to help rescue a local pub in danger of closing forever - and said he was looking forward to pulling the first pint.

The Prince of Wales threw his support behind the campaign to save the Somerset Arms in Semington, Wiltshire - and called British pubs a 'lifeline'.

The pub has been closed for the past three years, and has now gone on the market for £395,000.

Andy Cobley - vice chair of the Semington Community Benefit Society - said locals were 'stunned' by the royal backing, which has been a huge boost.

He said: 'We are over the moon that Prince William has made this donation and also at his recognition of how important pubs are within the community.

'We are incredibly excited and stunned. It is brilliant His Royal Highness can recognise what is going on in these small villages and help us out. It's fantastic.'

Campaigners had previously called for William to pull the first pint behind the bar, if and when the pub reopens - an invitation he appears to have accepted.

William wrote: 'Our pubs have long held a unique place at the heart of British life. 

'They are not simply places of hospitality, but vital spaces that bring people together, foster a sense of belonging and support the well-being of local communities.

'In rural areas, they can be a lifeline, helping to combat isolation and sustain local identity. 

'I am very keen to support the role that pubs play, not only as businesses, but as community hubs that contribute so much to the social fabric of our nation.'

The fund has already raised almost £200,000 through 250 pledges.

These are non-binding commitments ahead of potential formal share offers. 

William's donation comes after he made a surprise visit to a pub in Peckham earlier this month.

He delighted staff and punters at The Prince of Peckham in south-east London.

The prince gave a hug to a schoolgirl and tried his hand behind the bar as he showed his appreciation for local pubs.