People across Hampshire & Surrey will be taking part in ‘Sober October’ fundraising drives but they can still continue supporting local pubs simply by choosing a non-alcoholic beer or soft drink at the bar.

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Charity events and health campaigns that encourage people to not drink for a month can have a big impact on community pubs – many of whom are understandably already struggling with the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. That’s why we are urging people across the area to continue to support their local during October in a safe and responsible way, helping to secure the future of our pubs as vital community meeting spaces.

As well as supporting local businesses through tough times, pub-going and enjoying a non-alcoholic drink with family or friends also brings with it huge well-being benefits. On top of doing fantastic work themselves raising money for charity and supporting their local communities.

The Snow Goose in Farnborough is one of many examples. Throughout lockdown they did what a community pub should do, carried on serving the community. They established a pop up shop, which is still open offering basic essentials at cost price to key workers and those in need. They ran a Macmillan Coffee Morning in September with tea and coffee. and cake for just a small donation to make a big difference.

Like many of our pubs they also offer a fantastic range of low and no-alcohol alternatives to your favourite pint, allowing people to continue to support their local whatever they decide to drink.

Whether you’re taking part in a fundraiser or if you haven’t been to your local in a while, I’d encourage everyone to safely and sensibly support their local pubs as much as possible in the coming weeks and months to make sure we don’t risk losing them altogether.