The Nightingale Pub in Balham has beaten more than 400 pubs in the capital to be in the running to win London’s ‘Best Loved Local’ award.

The three-month Stella Artois campaign was spearheaded by Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels star Jason Flemyng.

But the actor, who co-owns the Duchess pub in Battersea, was left slightly left red-faced after his drinking hole failed to make the shortlist.

Also among the 10 finalists battling it out to win the acclaimed title of best local and a cash prize of £8,500 are the Brown Dog in Barnes and the Brewery Tap in Wimbledon.

Others nominees include the George Tavern in Stepney, the Churchill Arms in Kensington, Fleet Street's the Punch Tavern and the Triangle in Crouch End.

Also in the running were Islington's Old Red Lion Theatre, the George, in the Isle of Dogs and the Mall Tavern in Notting Hill.

The top prize includes a £5,000 bursary to put towards community friendly projects, such as a new beer garden or children’s play area, £1,500 for staff and £2,000 towards a holiday for the landlord.

Three runners-up will each receive a £1,500 bursary, £1,500 to throw a staff party and £2,000 for the landlord.

A panel of judges will announce the winner at an awards party later this month.