Community Spirit Soars as Cliff Parisi Champions Local Pub Revival in Littlebury

As the festive season approaches, the warmth of community spirit shines through in Littlebury, Essex, where Cliff Parisi, beloved for his role as Fred Buckle in the hit BBC series "Call the Midwife," has taken up the mantle of local champion. With heartfelt earnestness, Parisi has rallied support for The Queen's Head pub, which has stood closed for four months, urging residents to invest in their community's shared heritage. In a recent Instagram video, Parisi, 64, articulated the broader plight of village pubs across the UK, underscoring their significance as social hubs. He lamented a troubling trend where many pubs are shuttered, often replaced by housing developments—quickly becoming more profitable than the cherished establishments that once served as community gathering spots. "Where do people go?" he asked. "The hubs of the community are the churches, the village hall, the pub...all of them are gone in most villages. We might be hanging on to our churches, we might be hanging on to our pub or our village hall... Let's hang on to everything that we've got." His passionate call to action has resonated with more than 400 supporters who have pledged financial backing to buy the pub, a move Parisi believes will not only breathe new life into the establishment but also enhance property values in the community. "It's fifty quid for a share. Just fifty quid. That's an investment into you, your community and your own property," he urged. Parisi reassured supporters that the future of the pub is bright, with plans for excellent food and potential contributions from celebrity chefs. The plight of The Queen's Head echoes a decision by Greene King, the brewery that owns the pub, to sell the establishment as they no longer feel equipped to operate it effectively. A spokesperson from Greene King acknowledged the challenge of such decisions, highlighting their commitment to ensuring the pub remains a viable community space. They are also entertaining offers for The Ickleton Lion, further emphasizing the trend of community groups stepping up to preserve local pubs. As the community rallies around this cause, Parisi’s efforts come at a time when "Call the Midwife" is set to captivate audiences with its two-part Christmas special. The episodes, airing on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, promise to deliver a mix of festive cheer, poignant storytelling, and a gripping cliffhanger, as the beloved midwives of Nonnatus House navigate the challenges of 1969 amid the holiday season and a public health crisis. As both the community of Littlebury and Parisi prepare their respective celebrations—one with a pint of local ale, the other with heartwarming television—it is clear that the spirit of togetherness and resilience remains strong. The era of closing pubs may face a counter-movement led by passionate locals like Parisi, reminding us all of the vital role these establishments play in our lives. With the festive season upon us, the message is clear: let’s not only celebrate our traditions but also protect them for future generations.