WITH Christmas party season in full swing it seems unlikely that many in Worcestershire are giving much thought to taking a break from their favourite tipple.

But an alcohol charity is urging people to consider giving their bodies – and livers – a break in January.

Today, Friday, December 19, is expected to be the busiest day of the year both for pubs, clubs and bars as well as for emergency services.

But national charity Alcohol Concern has seen an increase in people signing up to the Dry January scheme, committing to going the entire month without booze.

The charity’s chief executive Jackie Ballard said many people may find themselves drinking more over the festive period.

“This is the perfect time to sign up to a holiday from alcohol,” she said. “Dry January is not about never drinking again – It’s just an opportunity for people to reflect on their drinking patterns and to give their body a break from alcohol after the festive period.

“We know from previous years that people who do Dry January will feel better, lose weight and save money.”

Head of alcohol and drugs with Public Health England in the south west Clive Lewis also backed the campaign.

“Over 17,000 people took part in Dry January in 2014 and many reported that taking a month-long break from alcohol acted as a reset button concerning their alcohol use for months afterwards, not only helping people to drink less per drinking day but also to drink less frequently,” he said.

To sign up to Dry January visit www.dryjanuary.org.uk.