I DO like the odd excursion to our capital, and if I have any free time while I am down there, I can often be found pub hopping in either Camden Town or Finchley, where there are some very nice boozers.

London Pride is my favourite tipple down south.

This splendid characteristic cask ale is a pleasure to drink, even though it can give the drinker wind and sometimes makes the 8pm Kings’ Cross to Darlington train service a little uncomfortable.

The next time you are in London don’t stick with John Smith’s or order a bottled beer, give London Pride a try. It really is a classic English pint.

Christopher Wardell, Darlington.