THE weekend is here and today England will play Sweden in the World Cup quarter-finals. The sun is shining, making it the perfect time to enjoy a few drinks with friends and watch the football.

Gwent is full of local pubs and venues, including community owned art space, Le Pub, which has been loyal to Newport city centre for 26 years.

Le Pub frequently features live performances and events, with a focus on music and the arts. The people who run it are passionate about Newport, and have shown support for RISE Propaganda and their rallying together of people who want positive change for Newport.

The venue has food and drinks on offer, and are working with Beer Rife Brewing to create their own ale. Graphic designers have been challenged to design a logo, with a £100 prize for the winner.

Le Pub is also promoting their summer cocktail challenge, based on parks and recreation, where people collect stamps for trying cocktails. There are eight cocktails to try - all available in slush form - and badges for those who complete the challenge.

Drinking responsibly is important, so people are advised not to attempt to complete it all at once, but with the sun shining why not make a start on the summer cocktail challenge?

Formerly located in Caxton Place it is approaching the anniversary of the pub’s move to a new building on High Street. The move coincides with the birthday of Le Pub, meaning they will celebrate both at a free event on July 27.

The celebrations will include live music, DJs and - of course - plenty of birthday cake. The details are still being confirmed, but organisers say a lot of it will remain a surprise.