NELSON is set to take part in the second battle of Trafalgar, but it has nothing to do with daring exploits on the high seas.

The town that bears the great sea hero's name will see the Lord Nelson pub, Manchester Road, and the Trafalgar, Railway Street, cut the price of beer on Monday in protest at Britain's beer tax.

The move is part of Bass Tavern's nationwide Trafalgar Day protest to raise awareness amongst drinkers of how much more tax they have to pay on their pint compared to their continental counterparts. The two Nelson pubs will be cutting the price of a pint by 26p. Customers will be able to enjoy mild and Worthington's cheaper bitter from 8pm - 10pm at the Trafalgar and from 11am - 11pm at the Lord Nelson.

The reduction is the difference between the levels of duty in England and France.

Staff will also be wearing admiral's hats, Nelson-style eye patches and "Axe the Tax" T-shirts.

Bass Taverns retail director, Clive Clinton, said: "We are celebrating Trafalgar Day in a very lighted-hearted manner but there is a serious message underneath. While the price of beer in Britain is considerably lower than in France the tax on French beer is a mere 4p a pint compared to 30p in Britain."

It is hoped the nationwide campaign will fire a broadside at Chancellor Kenneth Clarke in the run-up to the Budget.

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