PUB campaigners are calling on Norton residents to speak out over proposals to turn The Gigmill pub into a convenience store.

The popular landmark pub, on the corner of The Broadway and South Road, is under threat of closure and the Stourbridge and Halesowen branch of CAMRA has vowed to fight the plans.

Members recently staged a leaflet drop urging people to voice their opposition by forming an action group.

Pubs preservation officer Si Genner said: "The last thing we want is to lose another pub, but we want to hear what the locals think.

"There is only so much CAMRA can do, it's really up to the residents to put up a fight and we're hoping to get some feedback from the leaflets.

"We've tried to contact the current owners Marstons PLC, but they haven't come back to us. We've had no response at all.

"It's really up to the residents to let the council know what they think by getting in touch with them. We don't like to see pubs closing full stop."

However Marstons has already submitted a planning application to a build a single side and side/rear extension with entrance doors as part of the proposed conversion, although official change of use of the building is not required. It's understood supermarket giant Morrisons wants to take over the site.

A Marstons spokesperson confirmed: "We have submitted planning to enable conversion to a convenience store. Marstons has taken this decision due to the long term viability of the site."

Norton councillor Mike Attwood confirmed: "The proposed development is going to affect everyone and we want local residents to let us know what they think.

"The pub is a well known local landmark, but at the moment we've had no answer as to what the proposals are, it's all hearsay.

"We've already got a Co-Op on The Broadway and other convenience stores, including a Costcutter directly opposite the Gigmill, so there's already sufficient retail outlets in the area and I can't see a need for another one.

"People are always looking for nice areas to eat, so there are other things you can do to maintain a pub.

"Public pressure would be welcome, but I'm waiting to see it at the moment."

Pete Virdee, who runs the Costcutter on the opposite corner, said: "If Morrisons move in, they would wipe me out.

"It would be far better if they bought my site and then the pub could continue."