Regulars at The Plough pub in East Sheen are threatening a boycott after Fuller's was accused of forcing out the landlord.

The pub chain refused to extend the lease of the landlords, Tony and Mary O'Neill, which has sparked uproar from people who love the community local, which dates back to the 18th century.

A notice on the pub's website reads: "We are sad to have to tell you that we are having to return the lease of The Plough back to Fuller's. They have decided to operate the pub as a managed house.

"We will be leaving on Tuesday November 2nd. Thank you so much for all your support over these past 15 years."

More than 1,000 people have signed a petition opposing the move by Fuller's in less than 24 hours and they are threatening a boycott unless the decision is reversed.

The petition was posted on change.org by Conservative borough councillor, Brian Marcel.

Mr Marcel said: "Tony O'Neill has built up an amazing local community and has dramatically improved the food and atmosphere of The Plough.

"Fullers are refusing to extend the lease, instead taking it over as a Managed House.

"Not too late to express how the Community feels and threaten to boycott it if they go ahead."

One consequence of Fuller's taking over control of the pub on a managed basis is that fact that it will no longer include the garden, which is not part of the freehold of the property. This means The Plough will be much less attractive to locals.

The establishment appears to be closed temporarily and work was going on today to seal off the garden area from the pub.

Among the avalanche of contributions to the petition, Lisa Marcel wrote: "The Plough is a brilliant local pub…with a very popular landlord, managers and staff…

"A major part of its appeal is that it has been maintained as an independent pub with delicious food and great wines.

"The thought of it becoming just another cog in Fuller's wheel and losing its individuality leaves a bitter taste…SAVE OUR LOCAL, KEEP IT INDEPENDENT."

Gill King wrote: "The Plough offers a wonderfully friendly environment which has been achieved by the personal involvement of the O'Neills.

"They have created a very welcoming local pub with amazing food and it would be a tragedy to see such a great enterprise fall under the soulless corporate banner of Fullers."

Lisa Mitchell said: "Having frequented the pub for the last 40 years and loved how Tony has kept it a "local" it's disgusting what Fullers are trying to do. I will definitely not support the pub going forward if Fullers succeed."

Mark Benton said: "East Sheen residents appreciate the uniqueness and individuality an independently managed business brings to the community.

"We stand opposed to the steam rolling of large businesses bringing a formulaic and franchised approach to this community asset. I fear Fuller's have mis-judged their customers in this occasion."

Sigita Bozko wrote: "Very pretty neighbourhood pub with a front paved garden with climbing roses, patio heating and blankets for outdoor dining.

"Dedicated owners Tony and Mary make that place even more special to the locals as well as working staff."

Fuller's has been contacted for a comment.