Pubwatch alert over rival website

National Pubwatch is warning licensees about a website which has been set up with a similar name.

The organisation, which provides information and support for the network of local Pubwatch schemes, is concerned that the new website will confuse licensees.

It says that the website registered at www.nationalpubwatch.co.uk is not acting on behalf of National Pubwatch and has nothing to do with the voluntary organisation. Malcolm Eidmans, honorary secretary of National Pubwatch, said: "The nationalpubwatch.co.uk website has absolutely no connection with us and no support from us.

"We are not a business. That site has clearly taken on what National Pubwatch is all about and put it in a commercial context."

But David Jones, who says he is a licensee and runs the website, explained: "What we are doing with our website is nothing to do with nationalpubwatch.org.uk, it isn't a spin-off and it is legal and above board. "I am more than happy to put a disclaimer on our front page to the effect that we are not nationalpubwatch.org.uk.

"With National Pubwatch's consent, we will advise people to visit nationalpubwatch.org.uk if that is what they are looking for."

If you would like to contact National Pubwatch go to www.nationalpubwatch.org.uk.