Revellers flock to pubs after Big Freeze

REVELLERS flocked to the pubs in January as snow and ice kept many at home in December.

Latest figures show bar sales increased 1.3% in January, which was described as “unusual” by a spokesperson from the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland.

He said the hike may have occurred due to the poor weather in December and lower than usual consumption over the Christmas period. “The overall trend, however, is negative, in line with the declines and challenges being faced by the drinks and hospitality industries.”