THE district's pub-goers could soon be enjoying a cheaper pint after MPs voted to allow landlords to buy their beer on the open market.

This week the government was defeated by 284 votes to 269 with parliament voting in favour of a new clause to the Small Business Bill.

The result is that many licensees should soon be able to choose a 'market rent only' agreement meaning they will no longer be tied to one supplier.

The rules will apply to 'pubco' chains such as Enterprise Inns that have more than 500 premises.

One of their landlords, Glenn Powell, has been at the Jolly Farmer, Newton Abbot, for 25 years.