Kingswinford and South Staffordshire MP Mike Wood has launched a competition to find the best pub in his constituency.

Landlords, staff and customers can nominate pubs.

The competition was launched at the Horse and Jockey in High Street Wall Heath on Friday, August 8. The pub, which has been run for 13 years by Alan and Michelle Preston, has been nominated by regular Claire Millward.

The closing date for nominations is September 15 with the winner to be announced in October.

His constituency takes in many real ale pubs in the Dudley and South Staffordshire branch area as well as some of the South Staffordshire pub in the Wolverhampton branch area.

Mr Wood said: "I'm launching the competition at a time when the hospitality sector is struggling to publicise what makes our pubs so special."

Nominations can be for pubs that do amazing work in the community, raise large amounts of money for charity, support local grassroots sports and friendly pubs with fantastic staff that offer great food and a good pint."

He hopes to visit all the nominated pubs before announcing the winner and he plans to make it an annual competition.

The launch was held to coincide with International Beer Day.

Entries will be judged not just on the number of nominations received, but also on the reasons given for why the pub deserves to win. From exceptional service and locally brewed ales to great food, fantastic staff or a warm, welcoming atmosphere, all aspects will be considered. The launch also marked a poignant anniversary — two years since the devastating fire and demolition of The Crooked House, a beloved and historic local pub. As part of the campaign,the MP hopes to raise awareness of efforts to rebuild The Crooked House and to shine a light on the importance of preserving other heritage pubs across the region.

To submit a nomination, people should complete the short nomination form, available on Mike Wood MP’s website, or by following the link here: https://www.mike4kss.com/pub-year-competition