NewsDigest

A total of 55% of pub-company chief executives expect a downturn in 2008, with 82% predicting a slump in January and February. That's according to an on-line survey by Peach Factory, made available to City analysts Numis. Altogether 81% of pub groups reported negative like-for-like sales over Christmas, with not one reporting growth in alcohol sales. Nearly half - 45% - reported a 1% to 3% decline, and 18% falls over 5%.

Wychwood has reduced the abv of Hobgoblin cask ale from 5% to 4.5%. The aim is to produce a more sessionable beer. It was at 4.5% abv before Refresh took over the brewery in 2002 - it went to 5% abv in October 2003. The bottled version will remain at 5.2% abv. New PoS material will refer to "legendary ruby beer" rather than "strong dark ale".

Regent Inns is in the early stages of discussion about offers for the company. The firm has revealed that it received a number of preliminary approaches. Regent said: "The board emphasises that these approaches are at an early stage and may or may not lead to an offer or offers being made for the entire issued share capital of the company." Investment firm Sanne Trust has increased its stake in Regent from under 9% to 14.62%.

Mitchells & Butlers' White Horse in Parsons Green, London, has a new licensee. Dan Fox has replaced Sonia Harris at the pub, which was previously run by Mark Dorber. Harris is now head of human resources at M&B's Metropolitan Professionals arm. Renowned beer expert Dorber spent more than 25 years at the pub.

Trade stalwart Ray Smith has died in hospital after a short illness, aged 75. He was secretary to the Oldham & District Licensed Trade Bowling Association and raised money for trade charities by organising

fundraising and inter-LVA tournaments. He worked at the Wilson Brewery in Manchester before running several of the brewery's pubs. His funeral takes place at St Dunston's Church, Moston, today at 10.45am.