Music single to help save the pub

An American-based country singer is to release a single in support of the Great British pub.

British born country singer and record producer Bob James has teamed up with Inez Ward's Justice for Licensees campaign in a bid to highlight the plight of the British pub.

The song, which will focus on how the pub brings communities together, will be released complete with an amusing video on YouTube by the end of June. Any money raised will be put toward a fund for establishing a national body for licensees.

"I got my break in pubs and they are fantastic for musicians," said James. "It is so sad to see that they are closing and we want to raise awareness. It is part of the country's heritage and we should fight to protect it."

James said he had undertaken a similar project in the States over the plight of the home-farm when he released a single "Don't let the home-farm die".

There may also be the possibility of a series of benefit concerts to follow.

"I have been working with Bob for nearly a year now and he is as passionate as I about pubs and realises the negative influences on them," said Ward. "We decided that by working together that we could and will make a difference. We are both fervent in our belief and passion and I am thankful to Bob for his continued support and efforts."

Ward said the money raised could also be used to seek legal opinion on whether pubcos have breached competition law and aid struggling licensees. "It is heartbreaking that so many tenants have no legal redress due to their financial capabilities. That is not acceptable and will no longer be tolerated."