Hoxton pub-goers are stepping up their campaign, refusing to let “time” be called on their historic boozer.

Property developer Wenlock LLP will buy the Wenlock Arms in Wenlock Road, if it can secure planning permission to bulldoze the multi-award winning pub and replace it with a five-storey block of flats.

The pub which was built in the 1830s is a community hub, and holds dear memories for superstar footballer David Beckham, who often went with his late beloved grandfather.

The Save the Wenlock committee was formed a year ago when pub owners Steve Barnes and Will Williams - who have run the pub for 17 years – first announced their intention to sell.

Now a buyer has been found, they are stepping up their action, and even the pressure group Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has pledged its support.

Owner Mr Williams said he could sympathise with the campaigners.

“At the back of my heart I’d like to see the pub carry on, but business is business, and people aren’t making a lot of money in this business at the moment,” he said.

The Save the Wenlock committee wants to get Beckham’s backing, and pub regulars are so devoted to the cause they are even discussing whether to jointly buy the property themselves.

“This is a pub that has been in existence since the coronation of Queen Victoria, stood firm in the face of the onslaught of Hitler’s Luftwaffe and V2 rockets and yet is unable to avoid the wrecking ball of 21st century property developers for yet more ‘faceless eyesores’,” they said in a joint statement.

“What a sorry world we live in if this beloved local institution cannot be saved.”

To comment on the planning application contact Hackney Council’s case officer Benjamin Dixon on 020 8356 7939 quoting planning reference number 2011/1996.

To join the campaign go to www.facebook.com/#!/groups/142674799109124/