SWINDON'S James Arkell says a report saying wine sales will grow at the expense of the traditional British pint of beer, will not mean the demise of the local pub.

A report by Data Monitor, says Brits will be more likely to drink at home in the future or go out to a big venue in the town centre.

But Mr Arkell, the managing director of the Kingsdown-based family brewer, Arkell's, said: "For many people the local pub remains an important part of their life.

"For hundreds of years people have visited their local pub to socialise, find out what's going on, discuss matters of the day or share in national events and this hasn't changed.

"We certainly wouldn't be investing so heavily in the future of our pubs if we didn't think they were here to stay.

"Over the last year Arkell's has not only built and opened a new pub in North Swindon, The Tawny Owl, which has far exceeded its first year expectations, but also invested significant capital in pubs with have been in the brewery's estate for many years.

"These days our customers are looking for a more modern environment and that is what we are aiming to give them."