MP Stuart Andrew is pledging support for a campaign to help pubs stay open.

Mr Andrew, who represents Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough, is backing the Long Live the Local Campaign.

The MP joins the more than 240,000 people who have signed the petition so far, including 398 in his constituency. Brewing and pubs in the the Pudsey constituency support 1197 jobs and contribute £22.6 million to the local economy.

Mr Andrew said: “I have been contacted by a large number of constituents who are concerned about the issues affecting our pubs and I was pleased to be able to attend the Long Live the Local event and hear more about what can be done to help support pubs.

“I was pleased to see our General Election Manifesto include a commitment to reviewing and reducing business rates for small businesses such as pubs.”