Bristol & District CAMRA Pubs Campaigning Group is celebrating the great British pub this week with a series of activities designed to support the community pub. Its Local Pubs Week will run from Monday 2^nd November until Sunday 8^th.

Designed around the number “seven”, the group will be highlighting the positive aspects of community pubs as well as lobbying local MPs to take positive action to protect pubs.

At a time when local pubs are closing at an unprecedented rate, it is vital that communities realise what a great asset a local pub can be. The British pub is a cornerstone of our way of life and the envy of much of the world.  With the closure of so many other community facilities such as local shops and Post Offices, the pub is often the one remaining place where local people can meet in a friendly, comfortable environment and enjoy a drink with family and friends.

With so much publicity surrounding binge drinking, well run community pubs should be seen as part of the solution to the problem. Pubs are about community and cohesion. The problems relating to binge drinking largely stem from heavily discounted sales in places such as supermarkets selling products that are very high in alcohol and appeal to a certain, limited market.

As part of the week of action, Bristol & District CAMRA Pubs Campaigning Group will be:

1. Highlighting 7 great things about visiting community pubs

2. Campaigning for 7 closed pubs to reopen in the Bristol area

3. Featuring 7 community pubs to visit  - examples of great locals

4. Highlighting 7 beers styles that can now be found in pubs in the area

5. Writing to lobby local MPs with 7 Government actions required to support community pubs

6. Flagging up 7 things pubs can try to get more trade

7. Supporting 7 local breweries

See www.localpubsweek.co.uk

The Bristol & District CAMRA Pubs Campaigning Group will be holding informal social events at the following pubs over the week. These are open to everyone:

Monday 2nd November, 6.30 start - Duke of York, St Werburghs

A true local at the heart of this inner city community. Two roomed pub with additional room on the first floor and a pleasant garden. Imaginative décor makes for an interesting pub experience!

Tuesday, 3^rd, 7.00 start - Off the Rails, Weston-super-Mare

Genuine free house situated on the railway platform and is also the station buffet. Deservedly popular with locals and travellers. Enjoy a porter with us!

Wednesday, 4^th, 7.30 start - Anchor, Thornbury

The Anchor Inn is a friendly, welcoming, traditional pub that serves award winning cask ales. Winner of the Thornbury in bloom award

Thursday, 5^th,  7.00 start - Orchard (nr SS Great Britain )

Small, well run pub. Recently named winner of national CAMRA Cider pub of the Year. Great real ales also!

Friday, 6^th, 7.30 start - Royal Oak, Gloucester Road, Horfield

Friendly local pub, with an emphasis on great food and quality drinks.  The pub has an environment that welcomes a diverse cross section of the community, from mums and babies, to students and professionals alike.

Saturday, 7^th, 12.30  start - Mason's Arms, Stapleton

Pub with a bit of history in being an old coach house on the old road to London , it used to have its own mash room/brewery also. The interior has cast iron colonnades and a snug. Hidden garden at rear.

Sunday, 8^th, 12.30 start - Eldon House, off Jacob Wells Road, Hotwells

Multi roomed pub which has had a recent refurbishment. Another local pub where trade has bucked the trend as a result of a great customer offering.