THE SEARCH has begun for Wirral's champion pub of 1998. We are looking for brilliant boozers, lovely locals and top taverns to battle it out for the prestigious title of Wirral Globe Local Pub of the Year 1998.

And's it the people who matter the most - YOU - that get to have your say by nominating your preferred watering hole from those listed on these pages.

Not only can you bring glory to your landlord, but you can win a £50 voucher to spend toasting him or her in your favourite public house.

Our first contest last year was a huge success with sackfuls of nominations, proving that Wirral is blessed with many top-notch pubs and clubs.

Last year's winner, The Clarence, Albion Street, New Brighton, is the model that all aspiring champions have to follow. They pride themselves on providiing traditional cask beers, good food and a warm welcome at the family-run inn.

This year, the top five pubs with the most votes will be judged by an independent team who will award points for atmosphere, friendliness of the staff and the quality of the products they serve.

The winner gets the prestigious Globe trophy, a (pounds)250 holiday voucher, as well as a full write-up in the Globe. There is also plenty of publicity on offer for the four runners-up. Last year they were The Cavendish, Birkenhead; Moby Dick, West Kirby; Swan Hotel, Prenton, and Victoria Lodge, Tranmere.

Don't forget, there is much more to a good local pub than just the range of beers, wines and spirits on offer. We are equally as concerned with good atmosphere, pleasant surroundings, a warm welcome and good, friendly staff.

The lucky £50 voucher winner will be drawn from all the nominations we receive here at Globe House, by the closing date of Friday, July 17.

Use our printed form to send your nominations to Wirral Globe Local Pub of the Year Competition 1998, Globe House, Catherine Street, Birkenhead, L41 6HW.

So, get writing and let us know who you think should be the champion Wirral local pub of 1998!

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.