InBrief

MPC offers pubs free spring clean

Marston's Pub Company (MPC) pubs are to get a spring clean to coincide with the start of the smoking ban. More than 200 MPC pubs in Wales, where the ban starts on 2 April, will receive a steam clean for free during the first two weeks of that month. MPC plans to extend the scheme to its pubs in England to coincide with the English ban on 1 July.

Licensees urged to 'Raise the Bar'

Licensees in Walsall in the West Midlands are being urged to attend a conference aimed at paving the way for a new sensible drinking initiative in the borough. The conference, on 22 March, called Raising the Bar: Setting Standards for Responsible Drinking, has been organised by the British Beer & Pub Association, plus the local police and council. For more information call Richard Matthews on 01562 67708.

Second chance for Dog & Bone

Lincolnshire brewer and pub operator Batemans has chosen not to develop a Lincoln pub into flats after new licensees reversed its fortunes. Eve Quinn and Alex Rutherford took over the Dog & Bone six months ago and introduced a range of activities including a book exchange, poetry and cribbage nights. Rob Jones, director of Batemans' pub division, said: "We are in the business of running pubs not closing them."

Blooming good value flower offer

Pub goers will be able to order flowers direct from the pub for Mother's Day via a new service called "Flowers 24". Customers can order flowers that will be delivered directly to any UK address within 24 hours from the MAX BOX kiosk network in pubs. A range of flowers are available, from pink roses to a seasonal bouquet.