EIGHT local hostelries have been given a distinct honour - by being named as Pubs of Distinction.

They are featured in a new guide from the North West Brewers and Licensed Retailer Association called Pubs of Distinction.

Mr Richard Daglish, secretary of the association, said: "There are many thousands of pubs in our region, far too many for one publication, so breweries and pub companies have nominated their own cross section to represent the unique diversity of our pubs."

The new leaflet is launched this week and covers North Wales to Cumbria. It is available at Tourist Information Offices.

It includes information on the pubs featured, including food availability, no-smoking areas, facilities for families and disabled drinkers.

Also included are tips for foreign visitors who may be unfamiliar with the ways of the Great British Pub.

The eight local "locals" featured are the White Lion on Bolton Street, Bury; the Pack Horse at Affetside; Pack Horse at Birtle; the Red Lion, Hawkshaw; Rose and Crown, Turton; The Swan, Tottington Road, Woolfold; Victoria Hotel, Walshaw; the Woodthorpe, Bury Old Road, Heaton Park.

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