Tory MP Bob Neill has been appointed community pubs minister by the government.

Following pressure applied by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) on the government, Neill - an MP from the Department of Communities and Local Government - was appointed to be responsible for community pubs.

Neill holds the same status as Labour's John Healey did before the election.

Bob Neill MP said: "The local pub is a Great British institution and the social heartbeat of life in our towns and villages, bringing people together and strengthening community relationships.

"As minister with responsibility for pubs, I am determined to protect the valuable role pubs play and help them to thrive. As part of our commitment we are giving residents the power to take over local pubs that are threatened with closure, and working with the sector to make sure expert advice is available to support them.

"I'm keen to hear more from publicans over the coming months about what more the government can do to protect the local pub."

CAMRA said it will be urging Bob Neill to "ensure that the government adopts a joined-up approach in protecting and promoting well-run community pubs".