The Leicester Mercury is joining the search for the most family-friendly pub.

Seven bars and restaurants are challenging for the honour of picking up the 2009 Best Bar None family-friendly award.

It is one of four categories in the annual Best Bar None Awards, launched in 2007 and organised by Leicester City Council, police and fire service.

This year, 68 entrants will compete to be crowned best pub, club, bar and family-friendly venue. Winners will be announced on June 16.

The family-friendly award will be decided by a vote via the Leicester Mercury's website.

Pubs in the running are the Last Plantagenet, in Granby Street, Loaf, in Braunstone Gate, the Slug and Lettuce, in Market Street, The Quarter, in Halford Street, the Bowl Turner's Arms, in Belgrave Gate, The Old Horse, in London Road, and last year's winner, the Jungle Club, in Checketts Road.

Nigel Gordon, owner of The Quarter, said: "To be associated with the Best Bar None competition is like a stamp of approval.

"We've seen the benefits because people see your establishment as a safe, family-friendly place to go. We don't have a children's menu in our restaurant section, but we do supply smaller portions, because why shouldn't children enjoy the same thing as their parents?"

Pubs which apply are judged on criteria including safety and food hygiene.

Kevin Shepherdson, landlord at The Old Horse, said: "Since the smoking ban came in, we've had to rethink how the pub is run and who we're catering for.

"More families are coming in than ever before.

"We've had to convert one of the toilets into a baby changing room because we're getting so many more families.

"We pulled down the conservatory to build a family eating room and we've invented a kids' menu."

Sumera Syed, deputy manager at the Slug and Lettuce, in the city centre, said: "We have a set children's menu and baby changing units and there are activities for youngsters.

"Being part of Best Bar None means people recognise we are a safe, family-friendly place."

To nominate your most family friendly pub click here