Pubs and politicians celebrate Proud of Pubs Week

Pubs across the country have already been getting into the spirit of Proud of Pubs Week 2010.

Scores of licensees have held fundraising events, parties, tried something new in their pubs and invited dignitaries to learn more about the trade.

Licensee Carl Scourfield was one of the dozens who have received visits from a local MP.

He welcomed the new Tory MP for Chester Stephen Mosley to his pub, the Pied Bull.

Carl said: "He definitely left with a better understanding of the industry then when he walked in. He was here for an hour and really listened. He said he would write a letter on our behalf to George Osborne to raise our concerns about duty and VAT."

Meanwhile Tony Baldry, MP for North Oxfordshire, visited Hook Norton pub the Butchers Arms, near Banbury and discussed the issues facing rural pubs.

Hook Norton managing director James Clarke said: "Hook Norton's community pubs are vital to the towns, villages and country areas they serve. They are where people meet and socialise, and they promote responsible and sensible drinking."

In Bedford, Mayor Dave Hodgson got behind the week with a visit to Charles Wells pub the Fox and Hounds in Riseley.

He is visiting pubs in Bedford as part of his Pints in the Parishes' initiative to discuss the issues that matter to them.

He said: "I've been really proud of the quality of our local pubs and the reception they have given everyone. Proud of Pubs week takes place once a year and I encourage everyone to support their local pub."

Joanna Dring, PR manager for Wells & Young's, said: "Pubs are a British icon and must be treasured, and Proud of Pubs Week is a great way of highlighting their unique position in Britain's communities."

And Ashley and Kelly McCarthy, winners of our Proud of Pubs Award for their efforts at Ye Old Sun in at Colton, North Yorkshire, celebrated the week with a farmers market.

Meanwhile licensee Dave Davies launched Proud of Pubs Week with a visit from local DJ Johnny Lewis.

And staff at Fuller's pub the Fisherman's Rest in Lymington, Hampshire, also celebrated Proud of Pubs Week during a head brewers roadshow.

Proud of Pubs Week started on Monday and runs until Sunday (July 25), with many more pubs and MPs expected to take part in the celebrations.