Brits will beat wet New Year’s supping 425 million pints this month to shun Dry January

Brits will apparently shun Dry January this year, instead opting to visit the pub for a beer or two, or knock back a few at home after the New Year’s celebrations

Brits will beat the New Year’s rainy days by supping 425 million pints of beer this month to shun Dry January – after shaking off hangovers tomorrow.

With washouts ahead, boozers are racing to refill cellars after last night, with 175 million pub pints plus 250 million pints at home to be knocked back this January, British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) beer consumption data trends show.

Many drinkers will be back in the boozer for New Year’s Day meet-ups. Pubs have bookings for the rest of the week, with schools still on holiday and festive attractions including ice rinks open until Sunday.

Wetherspoons is set for a rush after slashing prices of a pint as low as 99p at its almost 800 pubs from tomorrow (Thu) to January 16.

Castle Rock Brewery, in Nottingham, launched a campaign encouraging drinkers to visit a pub every day this January.

Bosses said: “This January we’re celebrating pubs all month long. The challenge is simple – visit 31 pubs this month. Your presence will support your pub, whatever you drink.”

Drinker Andy Milliard, from London, wrote on Facebook: “Dry January and Sober October are stupid ideas and take support away from pubs.

“400 pubs closed last year – and remember a night out is a great release and much needed by hard-working people.”

At Wetherspoons from tomorrow, a pint of Worthington’s will cost an average of 99p, with Ruddles at £1.29 and Doom Bar at £1.49, with a glass of Coldwater Creek wine at £2.49.

Wetherspoons boss Tim Martin said: “Shops hold their sales in January, so it is the perfect time to have a pub sale too.”

A BBPA spokesperson said: “Pubs pride themselves on catering for all and they will continue to be a home from home through January.

“They will also serve up more no and low alcohol options.

“However, the sector is facing severe costs and taxes, and the Government must swiftly reform the business rates system which punishes pubs by making them pay five times their relative rate of turnover.”

Drinkers taking a break from the booze will also hit pubs, boosting spending, with a record array of non-alcoholic drinks available.

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