EAST Devon District Council is backing a campaign encouraging people to take a holiday from alcohol once the seasonal festivities are over.

The charity Alcohol Concern’s Dry January 2015 campaign, which is also supported by Public Health England, encourages people to take a month out from alcohol and enjoy the benefits of having a break from drinking.

The campaign is launched on 19 December and aims to encourage as many people as possible to stop drinking during January. A range of support and encouragement will be available via their website at: www.dryjanuary.org.uk.

The initiative is backed by the district council, whose new Public Health Project Officer, Helen Wharam, is assisting in promoting the campaign.

Also lending support is the council’s champion for health and wellbeing, Councillor Peter Sullivan, who said: “Without wishing in any way to dampen people’s good spirits at this festive time, it makes perfect sense to make plans now to take steps in January aimed at recovering from some of the excesses and indulgences of Christmas time.

Taking more care “We all make New Year resolutions and for many of us top of the list are losing a bit of weight and taking more care how much we eat and drink.

“What we are suggesting to residents is that they should consider banishing the booze in January and make a healthy start to the New Year. Go booze-free for 31 days. It’s a chance to lose weight, feel better, save money and make a positive difference to your lifestyle. You’re sure to lose a few pounds while saving a few quid and with no hangovers you’ll find time and energy you never knew you had. Oh and apparently your skin will look nicer too!”.

Over 17,000 people took part in Dry January 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 them to drink less on each occasion they had a drink but also to drink less frequently.