So top scientists have confirmed (what many of us already knew anyway) that pubs play a vital role in spreading social engagement.

People who have a local (it's a shame my local has been closed for five to six years now) where they regularly meet to drink and mingle are happier and play a large part in their community.

It is just a shame that what would have been my local (the Royal Oak) has been closed for about six years now.

According to lead researcher, Professor Robin Dunbat, from Oxford University, this study showed that frequenting a local pub can directly affect people's social network size and how they engage in their local community.

This plays a large part in triggering the endorphin system which promotes social bonding, like other complex bonding systems, including singing, dancing and storytelling and getting some inspiration for letters to send to the Evening News of course.

Marcus Moore, Sprowston.