CAMRA concentrates on the community

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is putting a new focus on its Community Pubs Week this year, as it steps up its efforts to save local pubs under threat from closure.

Licensees are being urged to get behind the week - which runs from February 16 to 23 and promises to raise the profile and importance of pubs in the community.

Licensees signing up to the week online will be sent a promotional pack filled with ideas and decorations to attract people into their pubs. Participants will also be encouraged to organise events during the week, in a bid to entice new customers in and stimulate trade in the traditionally quiet post-Christmas period - with licensees given the chance to promote their events to CAMRA members via the organisation's website.

Promotional packs include posters, pump-clip crowners and beermats, along with more practical items such as press release templates and advice sheets. CAMRA is also promoting a nationwide quiz taking place on Thursday February 21, which is based online and played by the entire pub as a team.

Owen Morris, CAMRA spokesman, explained the decision to change the focus of the week this year. "We decided to focus more on community pubs and what they can do for the people they serve, after research about pub closures showed that more than 50 pubs were closing every month.

"We hope the week will act as a catalyst for continuing events throughout the rest of the year, and keep people aware that the pub can be at the hub of their local community."