Campaign to champion responsible drinking

Shropshire hospitality venues are being urged to champion responsible drinking this festive season as a national campaign – backed by police and major industry partners – returns for its third year.

As Christmas parties and seasonal gatherings fill the calendar this month, the campaign invites pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels across the region to support guests who choose not to drink alcohol – whether they are designated drivers, moderating their intake, or simply opting for healthier alternatives.

Fronted by Shropshire-based spring water brand Wenlock Spring, ‘The Only One for the Road’ is designed exclusively for the hospitality sector and encourages venues to highlight the scale of their non-alcoholic offering, helping make responsible choices visible, accessible and appealing.

As part of the campaign, which has also secured support from industry partners including Unitas Wholesale, brewers Frederic Robinsons, Arkell’s and Titanic, Wenlock Spring is also providing point-of-sale materials such as beer mats, posters and tent cards for venues to encourage guests to enjoy drinking responsibly with Wenlock Spring Water.

The official launch event took place at the Lion & Pheasant Hotel in Shrewsbury – one of a growing number of hospitality venues across the region backing the campaign – and featured a visit from Santa himself.

Director at Wenlock Spring Matthew Orme said: “Rather than focusing solely on the risks associated with drink-driving, this year’s campaign places greater emphasis on encouraging venues to promote responsible drinking and provide positive, enjoyable non-alcoholic alternatives for customers.

“Choosing a non-alcoholic option should feel every bit as celebratory. Beautifully served in a stemmed glass and enjoyed perfectly chilled, Wenlock Spring – still or sparkling – offers a thoughtful alternative that elevates the moment and lets every guest share in the festive atmosphere.”

Latest West Mercia Police figures show that over the past three years across Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, there have been 13 fatalities and 132 serious injuries on the roads where alcohol has been a contributory factor. 

Superintendent Stuart Bill of West Mercia Police said: “The drink-drive law has been in place for 60 years, with officers able to deliver breath tests at the roadside since the 1980s. It’s therefore extremely frustrating that some motorists still drive under the influence of alcohol. With the variety of non-alcoholic options now available, there really is no excuse."

Pictured: At the launch event at the Lion & Pheasant Hotel duty manager Scarlett Moss, reception manager Faye Glassey, Steve Tuck (Santa) of Wenlock Spring, and Vicki Bristow of West Mercia Police