The new owners of a historic boozer have promised to keep it running as a "great London traditional pub".

Urban Pubs & Bars have confirmed that the chain is "rescuing" The George, in Wanstead High Street - approaching its final day of trading as a Wetherspoons this Sunday (October 13).

The pub and dining group also said it will be renamed The George & Dragon, "as a mark of respect" to the pub's history.

In March, Wetherspoons announced that the high street pub was "under offer" from another pub company, sparking a 3,200-strong petition and a community campaign to "Save the George".

READ MORE: The George, Wanstead Wetherspoons closure date revealed

Urban Pubs & Bars have only now come forward to say they have bought the George, promising it will reopen "very soon" following a "few improvements". 

A spokesperson for Urban Pubs & Bars said: "We are delighted to be able to rescue this much loved pub, a place that has been part of Wanstead’s history since 1716.

"Following some refurbishment work the pub will reopen as a great London traditional pub serving great food including a range of delicious Sunday roasts and a wide selection of beers.

"We look forward to seeing you soon."

The pub was formerly known as The George & Dragon Inn when it was built in 1716, and was renamed as The George in 1904 after it was rebuilt. 

It was previously up for sale in 2012, when a Wetherspoons spokesperson advised they would continue leasing the pub up to 2034 - but these plans changed. 

East London politicians weighed in on the closure, accusing Wetherspoon of "ignoring community views".

Redbridge councillor Paul Donovan, who represents the Wanstead Village ward, previously told this paper: "What the last few months of activity around the Save the George campaign have shown is how important it is to have somewhere warm, where people can go for some reasonably priced food and drink."

He added: "It must be hoped that the new owners, Urban Pubs & Bars remember these important community aspects in running a pub in the area.

"Who knows, the future George could be better, only time will tell."