OVER 100,000 people in Somerset could benefit from drinking a little less and a little less often, according to new figures.

Somerset County Council’s Public Health team is encouraging everyone to sign up for ‘Dry January’ – an alcohol-free month, and to reap the benefits.

Dry January is national campaign from Alcohol Concern, which encourages everyone to take a month off alcohol.

The chairman of Somerset County Council, Cllr David Fothergill, and Cllr Christine Lawrence, chair of Somerset Health and Wellbeing, have been encouraging staff and visitors at County Hall to sign up for the campaign.

Cllr Lawrence said: “It’s a great opportunity to have a break from alcohol for a while – and to feel some of the benefits.

“Like sleeping better, having a bit more energy and having a bit more money to spend on something else!”

Cllr Fothergill said: “I always have a month off alcohol in January. It really helps to put a halt on those drinks which over the year have just become habit.”

Over 17,000 people took part nationally in Dry January this year and many reported that taking a month long break from alcohol acted as a reset button concerning their alcohol use for months afterwards, helping people to cut down their drinking to lower risk levels.

Although the majority of people in Somerset who drink alcohol are doing so in a way that is not harming their health, there are an estimated 100,000 people who could benefit from drinking a little less, a little less often.

Anyone wanting to talk to someone about their drinking and to get some help to cut down can contact the Fresh Steps Health Trainers on 08004-125502.

They provide free, one to one confidential and positive support.

There is also help available through the Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service on 03003-08788