Looking for the best
In the current climate, it's more important than ever to remember that the pub is an essential British icon.
The Publican is teaming up with Brakes and Red Tractor, the independent mark for affordable, quality British food and drink, to find the Best British Pub - and help them drive sales.
The search is on for a pub which epitomises Britishness, whether through the food they serve, the beers they provide, or the games they play.
The competition will be centred on what pubs are doing during British Food Fortnight, which runs from September 20 to October 5.
Three finalist will win £500 in Brakes vouchers and the overall winner will additionally win £500 cash. In addition, the first 250 entrants you will receive a promotional pack enabling you to run competitions for your customer to win Farm Stay break vouchers and children's ride-on red tractors.
We will be looking for three finalists that can demonstrate to the judging panel from Brakes, Red Tractor and The Publican all the elements that make them a great British pub.
The judges will be looking at promotion of local food and drink as well as the way the pub highlights provenance on their menu, as well as how the pub will support British Food Fortnight
Other things that will be taken into account are the pub's support and involvement in the community; whether it be themed nights, supporting local teams and charities or as a social hub for the area.
The competition is open to independent pubs - tenancy, leasehold and freeholds. To enter, log onto www.british.brake.co.uk to download an entry form - you can also find full terms and conditions there.
There is also lots of point of sale and recipe ideas there to help you. Alternatively call Brakes customer service team on 0845 606 9090 and request a form.
For further inspiration on recipe ideas and information on Red Tractor, visit www.redtractor.org.uk All entries need to be completed and returned to Brakes by August 30 2008.
