Two pubs were converted into supermarkets every week during 2012 and 2013, often despite opposition from local residents, a campaign group has claimed.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) said a loophole in planning law was allowing pubs to be changed into other uses without planning permission.

The group is urging the Government to take action so local communities are able to have their say over the future of local pubs.

Camra chief executive Mike Benner said: "The big supermarket chains appear to be targeting pubs for conversion, despite the fact that these pubs are often profitable and popular.

"This behaviour shows a remarkable disregard for the wellbeing of communities that face losing their valued pubs - leaving local people powerless to step in.

"Allowing pubs to be converted to supermarkets without planning permission is ludicrous, and something which the Government need to address as a matter of urgency."

Camra encouraged people to nominate pubs as an asset of community value which could prevent them being closed.