PUB-goers in Oxford are being given the chance to preview a new Cuban beer, writes David Duffy.

Morro named after Morro Castle which has for centuries defended the city of Havana against invaders is the first major Cuban beer brand to be made available in the UK.

And in a special arrangement between pub operators Morrells of Oxford and distributors Scottish Courage, it is being launched in two city centre pubs Que Pasa in New Road and the Rendezvous in Pennyfarthing Place.

Morrells of Oxford director, Derek Parfitt said: "The launch of Morro coincides with the increasing popularity of Cuba as a tourist destination.

"According to figures from the DTI and the British Embassy in Havana, in 1995 some 15,000 UK tourists visited Cuba. By 1999 this had risen to 100,000. This, coupled with the considerable growth in the popularity of salsa dance and Latino music, offers an ideal climate in which to introduce Morro."

A premium lager with a strength of five per cent alcohol by volume, it is brewed and bottled by Scottish Courage in a deal with Cerveza Cubanas. It is due to be made more widely available later this year.