Pubs sell x-rated DVDs

Trade bodies have taken a hard line against pubs selling pornographic DVDs from vending machines in their toilets.​

Fifteen pubs across the country, including three operated by Gloucester-based pub company Excelsior Leisure, are involved in a trial with pornography supplier Relish.

Tony Payne (pictured)​, chief executive of the Federation of Licensed Victuallers' Associations, said the initiative sent out the wrong message about pubs.

"We are trying to give pubs a family image and I can't believe it is worth getting involved in this sort of thing for the damage it would cause," he declared. "Local authorities will be taking over responsibility for licensing from next year and they are not going to be impressed by this."

The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) also warned publicans to think long and hard before installing one of the machines.

Karen Kelshaw, BBPA communications manager, said: "Although it may be legal, we would want pubs to consider the way this presents themselves to their customers.

"They may make a few quick quid in the short term, but how will it effect their long term position in their local marketplace?"

The DVDs cost £6 each, with the publican receiving £1.50 for each one sold. The soft core titles carry 18 certificates - rather than the R-18 certificates which would force them to be sold only from licenced premises.