Beer rather than heritage might be the preferred word on the lips of those who regularly visit the Load of Hay in Hendon.

But the Brent Street pub has been recognised as a part of the borough's unique legacy and added to Barnet Council's 'local list' of buildings of architectural or historic interest.

This means the council can use its planning powers to ensure preservation of its special character.

The Load of Hay, built in 1923, is a fine example of pub architecture of its period and its external features, which include black and white mock Tudor framing, have been well preserved, says the borough.

Councillor Monroe Palmer, Barnet's cabinet member for development and regeneration, said: "This building may look like a modest part of our history to some but we believe it is important to safeguard our entire heritage with a local list."