THE planned conversion of one of the 'most haunted' pubs in Britain has been described as a "terrible shame" by a Ribble Valley tour guide.

Donelan Trading Ltd wants to turn the former Punch Bowl Inn near Hurst Green into a cafe and 20-space caravan park with five extra holiday lets.

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The proposed plans include demolishing the smaller outbuildings on the site in Longridge Road to provide a new kitchen, cafe and a conservatory.

The Grade II-listed building dates back to the 1700s when highwaymen Dick Turpin and Ned King used the pub to hold up carriages on nearby roads.

Turpin left after three days for York, while King stayed until he was captured by the army after an intense shootout and was hanged from a tree outside the pub.

Simon Entwistle, a historian and supernatural expert said the pub being closed was a sign of the times.

He said: “It’s a terrible shame that the pub is no longer being used in its former manner.

“I hope the building isn’t taken down as it is such an important part of the history and character of the area and many people will know it for the story of Dick Turpin and Ned King.

“Their names are stamped into that building and I hope their memory lasts for a very long time.

“Hundreds of pubs are being closed each year and it’s very sad that it’s the case."

Cllr Janet Alcock, who represents the area on Ribble Valley Council, said: “I think it’s good to see the building being used in a positive way.

“The pub was on a horrible bend and I think seeing it being used in a way which would prevent less traffic is a good idea.

“In the proposed plans the building will be converted, so it will still have historical importance.

“I’m sure residents will have different opinions as many will have liked the pub for its history.”

The site has had a chequered past in recent years after closing and reopening as a pub and an Indian restaurant before shutting as a public house for the last time in 2012.

In a document to Ribble Valley Council, a spokesman from Bramley-Pate plus Partners, on behalf of the applicant, said: “The property has no future as a public house or restaurant as there are two existing established businesses three quarters of a mile to the East in Hurst Green.

“However, as the site is located in the Ribble Valley, close to various areas of countryside used for leisure pursuits, the applicant has identified a demand for short break holiday accommodation and weekend holiday lodge accommodation.

“This would encourage leisure visits to the area, complement the existing businesses in Hurst Green and provide a source of income for businesses in the wider area.”