SOUTHAMPTON'S White Star brewery is the toast of Parliament after its ales were accepted into the House of Commons Strangers Bar.

John Denham, the Labour MP for Southampton Itchen, helped the fledgling firm, which was opened last year, land the prestigious client.

The Northam-based brewery is offering its award-winning Majestic Ale and its seasonal brew, Frostbite. MPs have ordered a total of ten cases.

White Star co-founder Andy Ingram said: "It is quite something and not something I would ever have imagined happening, not in a million years.

"John Denham came round and said he'd see if he could get us in there and all credit to him. He got it done."

Mr Denham said: "I'm glad to be able to help promote local products and I hope that being chosen for the Strangers Bar will help this new Southampton enterprise. I look forward to downing a pint - after work of course."

Run by brothers Andy, 54, and Chris Ingram, 60, together with Andy's son James, 18, White Star brewed its first ale in October last year and won prizes within a matter of weeks.

The family firm has also just launched a range of four bottled beers.