Major competition for licensees launched

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and The Publican are marking the final countdown to this year's National Pubs Week with the launch of a major competition.

Pubs are urged to put on their own events to make the most of the week, which runs from February 18 to 25 - and the best will be picked out for national recognition.

Events could range from fancy dress parties to themed nights, beer and food promotions to charity evenings, or any initiative of your choice.

Entries will be judged by senior members of CAMRA and The Publican, with prizes on offer including 30 tickets for the winning pub to take its locals to this year's Great British Beer Fest- ival, which runs at London's Earls Court from August 1 to 5.

Both organisations are working closely on this year's Nat-ional Pubs Week, with The Publican's Proud of Pubs logo featuring on one million beermats being distributed to pubs in Pubs Week packs. Tony Jerome, CAMRA's marketing manager, said: "There are a number of pubs which have never tried organising events. This competition gives them a chance to try a few to see if they can make their pub busier at times of the week which are usually quiet.

"National Pubs Week and The Publican's Proud of Pubs campaign have similar objectives and it makes sense for us both to work together and promote all the good things pubs have to offer.

"Pubs have received some unfair, negative press over the new licensing laws and been blamed for the rise in binge-drinking. It is now time that we all worked together to encourage people to start supporting and visiting British pubs more regularly."

Every Pubs Week pack now includes an entry form and details of how to enter the competition. All entries must be submitted by March 3.