A FYLDE Coast MP is taking to the bar - asking people to air their problems over a pie and a pint.

Wyre's Hilton Dawson is believed to be the first MP to conduct official pub tours by going out to local hostelries to talk to constituents as they relax.

From October 15, he will be out and about in Poulton during the evening.

Said the Labour MP: "I was inspired to do this by someone I met in a pub as I was on the way to a meeting upstairs - he said it was great to see an MP in the bar.

"A lot of people don't want to go to public meetings or MPs' surgeries, so this gives them the opportunity to discuss their concerns in a relaxed environment.

"We've done it a couple of times in Lancaster and once in Garstang so far. My assistants go out about a week in advance to check with the pub landlords if it's OK and I'm really pleased to say they've been very co-operative, even putting notices up to tell people when I'll be there.

"I go round and introduce myself, and sit down and chat if they invite me to. I've been very gratified by the response. It's been excellent - we've ranged from people's personal problems to great issues of national importance, Europe and the world situation."

Though not averse to mixing business with pleasure, Mr Dawson makes sure he does not get carried away, limiting himself to half a pint in each of the four or five pubs he visits.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.