SINCE 2006 the number of British pubs has fallen by a worrying 20 per cent. There are many reasons why, but recently, in towns and cities, a major cause has been interest shown in them by supermarket chains.

Now that our food shopping habits have changed, the local is under pressure because of its prime location. To make matters even easier, planning permission is not required.

We think that’s wrong. Whenever a pub comes up for a change of use, surely the people who will be affected should be given a chance to speak out.

That’s why The Press launched its Be Vocal For Your Local campaign.

Now, we are pleased to say, it has taken a significant step closer to success after councillors passed a motion to protect the city’s watering holes from being sold off to the highest bidder without locals first having their say.

We have always said there should not be carte blanche protection for pubs and there will be instances where a change of use is the best course of action. But that decision should be made in consultation with ordinary people, not just by national businesses with open chequebooks.