THE Flag Inn, Bromley Cross, could scoop a top award in the pub industry's oscars -- the Laurel League of Champions.

It has been short-listed from 600 entrants for the Cask Marque category in recognition for the outstanding real ale it serves.

Publicans Gareth Richards and Jo Yates will need to start taking samba lessons if they get the award. The winners will be jetting to Rio de Janeiro for a week of celebrations.

Jo said: "I'm sure we've got a good chance because our customers love our ale. Now it all depends on what the judges think." Jo and Gareth will attend the awards ceremony at The Banqueting House in London on April 28.

The Laurel League of Champions recognises outstanding performance in 14 categories of excellence, from best food manager to best community pub.

The Laurel pub company was formed in May 2001. It owns 625 pubs, including The Flag.