A WORCESTER pub is laying down the gauntlet to local quiz teams to compete in the Brains of Britain competition.

The Talbot, on Barbourne Road, is holding the first heat this week.

More than 100 pubs in the John Barras chain will be taking part in the competition.

The final is due to take place in Manchester in the new year, when the brainiest team will scoop a £1,000 prize.

All the questions have been designed for the competition by the British Quiz Association.

Pub customers who take part will have their general knowledge put to the test in a series of rounds and heats over the coming months.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for local brain-boxes," said Linda Bloom, manager of The Talbot.

"As a community pub we regularly hold quiz nights but we have never offered our customers the chance to participate in an event of this scale.

"If you think you and your friends know who's who in the worlds of pop and TV, or can recall famous scientific facts and historical figures, then I challenge you to put your egos to the test."

For more information on the Brains of Britain competition, pop into the pub and ask bar staff for details.