The Sportsman Inn in Amberley boasts a rich and storied history that spans back to the mid-19th century, where it first emerged as a humble “Beer House” nestled along the road leading from Amberley to Rackham. Its initial auction in 1856 described it as a “substantial and well-built dwelling house”, serving as a beacon of hospitality and community gathering for locals and travellers alike.

Throughout the decades, The Sportsman changed hands, finding itself under the stewardship of various breweries, including the notable Chichester-based Henty & Constable and Friary Meux. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s when Chris and Jenny Shanahan took the reins that The Sportsman truly flourished as a cherished local establishment.

Under the Shanahans’ tenure, The Sportsman earned a reputation as a thriving pub, celebrated for its warm atmosphere, quality offerings and genuine sense of community. However, as the Shanahans retired two decades ago, the pub experienced a series of tenancies, with subsequent landlords unable to replicate the Shanahans’ success. Despite occasional glimpses of promise, including a commendable effort by Lee and Sophie Forbes, external challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and changing consumer habits took their toll.

The Sportsman has since closed, leaving behind a void in the heart of Amberley. Recognising the invaluable role The Sportsman plays in the village’s identity and to the wider community, concerned locals came together to form the Save Our Sportsman (SOS) Campaign. Motivated by a shared desire to restore The Sportsman to its former glory, the SOS Committee embarked on a mission to acquire the pub’s freehold interest and revitalise it as a thriving community hub.

Guided by a deep respect for tradition and a commitment to innovation, the SOS Campaign seeks to honour The Sportsman’s legacy while ushering in a new era of hospitality and inclusivity. With a focus on community ownership and engagement, the campaign aims to ensure that The Sportsman remains not just a pub, but a cherished institution where memories are made for generations to come.

As the SOS Campaign gains momentum and garners support from both local residents and those with ties to Amberley from afar, there’s a sense of optimism that the project shall be a success.