The campaign hopes to save rural pubs from closure

Research suggests most of those which close are being demolished or turned into houses even though most people prefer country pubs to town bars.

The campaign group wants communities to become actively involved in helping to save local pubs which are under threat.

It has launched a Community Pubs Foundation which will provide advice, information and small grants.

The campaign was due to be launched at Camra's annual Great British Beer Festival which is being held in London this week.

Pubs are right at the heart of rural communities and when they are lost, like the post office or the village shop, they are lost forever Mike Benner Camra

Chief executive Mike Benner emphasised that local pubs provide a place for local groups to meet and a safe environment for friends and family to relax.

He added that the loss of a valued community pub would have a negative impact on the local economy, community and tourism.

Speaking to BBC Radio's Good Morning Scotland programme, he said help would be available.

He added: "What we are trying to do is provide support for communities who care about their local.

"We're not going to make judgements on whether they are good pubs or bad pubs, we are simply going to respond to requests from communities who care enough to do something about a pub closure.