ALTHOUGH much has been made of the number of town centre pubs which have been closing down in recent years, one area of the trade which is definitely bucking the trend is the micro-pub.

In East Lancashire these have been opening up and succeeding with remarkable regularity.

They are usually small, often one-roomed affairs where the emphasis is on serving quality ale and offering convivial surroundings where good conversation is the order of the days.

By no means definitive - if we have not included your favourite please let us know - this list just gives a flavour of what’s on offer in the area.

The Vault, Oswaldtwistle

In less than six months, the Vault has quickly established itself as a popular hub in Oswaldtwistle. That’s in part due to its ever-changing selection of cask ales and more than 70 different gins in stock. Beers are selected from a range of North West brewers and usually there are also a couple of ciders on offer. The single-room - the Vault opened in a former hairdresser’s on Union Road - has bench seating around the walls and a standing area at the bar. For the undecided thirds paddles are available so you can try a selection of what’s on offer.

New Brew-m, Burnley

Recently relocated to bigger premises, the New Brew-M goes from strength to strength in Burnley town centre. Closely tied to Reedley Hallows brewery - two of its excellent ales are usually on offer among the six beers on tap - it’s become a popular choice with real aloe lovers and causal drinkers alike. There is also a range of gins and bottled beers on offer and the drinks menu changes very regularly giving you something new to try.

Casked, Rawtenstall

A relatively new arrival on to the scene in Rossendale, this single-roomed establishment is easily spotted due to its colourful signage. Inside there’s a warm welcome and a range of quirky seating. On offer are a range of ales, mainly from locally-based brewers, which change regularly making every visit an adventure. Recent awards from CAMRA point to the quality of the beer.

Ale House, Clitheroe

A bigger than usual micropub - it’s over two floors - the Ale House as its name suggests specialises in cask beers. An ever-changing selection of real ales from both local brewers and some more nationwide will tempt the connoisseurs and there is also a pleasing range of gins for those looking for something different. Live music is very much a feature of the Ale House including regular open mic nights.

Drummer's Arms, Blackburn

Situated in Blackburn town centre, The Drummer’s has quickly established itself as something of a cask ale lover’s favourite. A range of ever-changing ales are on offer, mainly from local brewers. The single room has a couple of leather sofas - much in demand - plus a mixture of furniture and ‘leaning point’s for you to enjoy a pint. In good weather there are also a few tables and chairs outside so you can watch the world go by.