College staff have come up with the novel idea of holding a philosophy course in a pub.

The five-week series of discussion groups will encourage students to debate a different topic each week over a drink.

However, Pete Ridge, curriculum manager at Northbrook College in Worthing, insists students will not be encouraged to drink to excess during studies.

He said: "People will be able to have a drink while they're discussing but it is more about taking education out of the classroom.

"I came up with the idea of the course because I wanted to widen participation. It's a new initiative and I think it's quite unusual. My feeling is that other things will follow, such as bar room discussions about art or poetry.

"I think people will find it easier to join in and may learn more effectively in a bar. Classrooms hold uninspiring memories for some."

The course begins on January 9 and will be led by Bill Brennan, a writer and theatre director, who aims to bring to life the theories of philosophers from ancient Greece to 20th Century Paris.

Mr Brennan is artistic director of Drip Action theatre company in Arundel and intends to rope his friends into the odd bar room discussion.

He said: "I'll be getting a few of my mates in to act because philosophy often leads to talking about plays, poetry and art.

"The idea for the venue was slightly modelled on cafes in Paris, where people like Jean Paul Sartre would have sat, chewing the fat wisely. The idea of sitting around talking while life is buzzing around you might inspire people to talk about the arts.

"It's a course for those who see life as a classroom and seek wisdom in company with half a pint of lager. The atmosphere will be relaxed and I'll encourage people to bring in a poem they like or a piece of music."

The course runs from 7pm to 9pm and takes places in the Renaissance Bar, Union Place, Worthing.

To enrol, ring 01903 606003.