THE PRIDE of two village pubs is once more at stake as teams gear up for their annual Boxing Day tug of war.

Thousands of spectators are expected to pack the banks of Cripsey Brook to see teams from Moreton pubs the Nag's Head and White Hart compete.

As always, the winners will be rewarded with a pint - while a freezing plunge into a muddy stream awaits the unfortunate losers.

The tug of war, an annual tradition dating back to the early 1900s, will be preceded by an It's a Knock Out-style contest involving races, beer-downing and apple-bobbing

After a string of Nag's Head triumphs, the White Hart caused an upset last year by snatching victory.

But Nag's Head landlord Graham Aldif said his team had been inspired by Team GB's Olympic success and were determined to regain the crown.

He said: "We never stop training.

"The Nag's Head are the epitome of well-toned, well-trained, athletic gladiators.

"We are going all out."

The fun gets under way at midday in front of the White Hart in Bridge Road, Moreton.