The Day Colchester MP Bob was called to the bar Wednesday 12th October 2011

COLCHESTER MP and ale lover Bob Russell did a shift behind a bar to learn more about the challenges facing the trade.

Mr Russell spent an afternoon learning how to pull a pint, change a barrel and clean the pipes at the Norfolk pub, in North Station Road, Colchester.

He chatted with customers and landlord Jason Latchford about the role of pubs in the community and challenges they face, such as cheap booze available at supermarkets and rising costs.

Mr Latchford, said: “Pubs are under increasing pressure from a tough consumer environment, rising beer duty, increased red tape, supermarket competition and rising costs.It is important politicians have an understanding of the issues and the potential impact on licensees and their businesses.What better way to gain that understanding than to work in a pub.”

Mr Russell’s shift was organised as part of an initiative by the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, of which brewer Greene King is a member .

Lib Dem Mr Russell, a member of the All-Party Beer Group, said: “It was quite an experience. Everyone made me so welcome on both sides of the bar.

“I was amazed at how physical the job is, not just being on your feet for so long but also the tasks in the cellar.’’ Mr Russell has called for the Government to reduce the alcohol levy and business rates on neighbourhood pubs and increase it for sales in supermarkets and mega-pubs.

He said: “This would also have the welcome addition of helping to reduce binge drinking and associated costs of antisocial behaviour we witness in our town centres every weekend.

“I know my time behind the bar will help me in my efforts in Parliament to promote our traditional neighbourhood, community pubs.”

Mr Russell’s pay for the shift will be donated to charity.