THE chairman of a residents’ association has vowed to fight to the ‘bitter end’ to stop a pub opening on a community park.

Restaurant chain Hungry Horse could open a branch in John H Burrows Park, Hadleigh, as part of a £3million regeneration project including improved sports changing facilities and a 180-space car park.

Alf Papworth, chairman of the Solby Estate Residents’ Association, said he has applied for lottery funding in a bid to revamp Hadleigh Hall – although it is anticipated repairs will cost about £750,000.

Mr Papworth, who has also written to Prime Minister David Cameron asking for his help to stop the pub opening, has led the campaign and started a petition which has attracted almost 1,100 signatures.

He says he will do all he can to stop the pub opening and will raise money any way he can.

Mr Papworth said: “I will not be ignored in regard to these plans.

“I will fight tooth and nail to keep a pub off this land, as it is so important to keep the park safe for children.

“The lottery funding is not out of reach.

“We have applied for anything up to £750,000 and although it is unlikely we will reach that sum, we would like to be recognised for the work we do and we are always looking to do more.”

Mr Papworth said he wrote to the Prime Minister in a desperate bid to get further support for his plight and says he will receive a response in the next week.

“We need all the help we can get and I am hopeful of a positive resolution.”