A New Malden pub is set for a change after being sold off.

There had been much discussion on social media, with many worried they would be losing local boozer the Royal Oak to make way for flats.

But as it turns out, those fears were only partially correct as the pub's now former owner, Greene King, confirmed it had sold off the watering hole.

“To allow us to continue investing in our pubs across the country we occasionally have to consider selling a pub," a Greene King spokesman said.

"The Royal Oak remains open and it is business as usual but after much deliberation we have reached agreement in principle to sell it to another pub company.”

While the new owner could not be revealed, it is understood that there will be a temporary closure following the sale for a refurbishment, although there is no timeline.

The current team at the pub have all been offered positions at other Greene King pubs in the area.