Campaigners trying to protect a much-loved pub from developers held a pop-up pub last week.

The Castle, on Battersea High Street, has been the subject of a planning application to turn it into luxury flats for more than two years.

In March, the pub was registered as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) under the Localism Act, making it the borough's first of its kind.

The status requires the developers, Languards, to retain a drinking establishment on the site, regardless of their plans to build on it.

The ACV also means the pub's campaigners, The Castle Battersea Supporter's Group, will be given time to come up with a bid for the pub when it is sold.

On Friday dozens of regulars and supporters turned up to try a free pint or two to highlight the campaign and to show residents the developer's new plans.

The beer was provided by Duncan Sambrook, owner of Wandsworth' very own Sambrook Brewery.

Languard's most recent application has removed the pub's vital basement and increased the proposed rent for any potential suitors.

Nicola Whyte, from the campaign, said: "The pop-up pub was really successful, we had about 40 people turn up which was great.

"We were stopping people and offering them free beer, which was actually unsurprisingly hard to give away.

"But the real reason for the event was to show residents that we are still here, still fighting for their beloved pub."

Battersea MP and Castle regular Jane Ellison was also on hand to show her support.

The ACV was granted following huge public pressure from campaigners and the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) including a petition signed by more than 900 people.

For more information visit castlesupporters.org.uk.