The rate of pub closures in the UK is down to 12 per week up until the end of March 2012, according to new research from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

The figures show rural pubs are closing at a net rate of four per week, and suburban at eight per week. The closure rate is down from 16 per week, as reported in the six-month period up until September last year.

The news comes as over 33,000 consumers have signed a national e-petition in recent weeks to bring an end to above inflation beer tax increases. CAMRA’s research shows 73% of regular pub goers support a freeze in beer duty.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, joined hundreds of Londoners and tourists at The Lamb Tavern in Leadenhall Market, London, to take part in its St. George’s Day celebrations. 

As part of the festivities, the 14th century pub attempted to break the world record for the number of people making a toast - but just failed.

"All the pub-goers enjoyed a good time on St George's Day which is not always celebrated in the same way as other national events such as St Patrick's Day," said a Lamb Tavern barman.