WEAVER Vale MP is calling on pubgoers to nominate their favourite haunt, to be put forward in the Parliamentary Pub of the Year competition.

Mike Amesbury is asking for suggestions on his Facebook page, where a poll will later be posted to help decide the constituency's nomination.

Mike said: “I’m the son of publicans and was raised in pubs so I’m a huge supporter of our great British pub trade.

“They’re not only an essential part of our communities in terms of the social aspect they provide, but the trade is also a huge employer both in my constituency and nationally.

“It’s been a difficult time for the trade in recent years so it’s even more important we celebrate it.”

The main criteria is a pub's range of beer and food, its recognition in local and national awards, its events and customers service throughout the year, and community contribution.

Toby Perkins, chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Pub Group, said: “Pubs are crucial to our communities as well as to our economy.

"Britain’s pubs employ over one million people and pay around £9 billion in taxes. It is so important that we support our much loved locals, and I am delighted to hear that Mike Amesbury is doing that by nominating a pub, I wish the nominated pub well and hope they might make the final down in Parliament this autumn.”

Nominations can be made at facebook.com/MikeAmesburyMP