January is a time when many of us want to give our body a rest after Christmas and start looking after our health again, so Herts health chiefs are urging people to take a break from booze and get their 2016 off to a positive start.

Dry January is not about never drinking again, but it does give your body a break from alcohol. Last year more than two million adults took part across the country, with around 1,000 people in Herts signing up online.

Herts County Council’s cabinet member for public health Councillor Teresa Heritage said: “Encouraging people to find manageable ways to bring healthy habits into their life is a priority for us.

“Cutting the amount of alcohol you drink is a good start and a whole month off alcohol is really good for your health.

“It boosts your energy levels and improves your sleep, but it also gives you a sense of achievement and can save you money too. Even six months later, evidence shows that two-thirds of participants are still drinking less, so there are long term benefits too.”

All over Britain people relax with a drink after a stressful day, or even at lunch, without realising the harm it can do to their health. A new Alcohol Concern survey of more than 2,000 adults has revealed that of those that drink alcohol in an average week, one in ten have their first drink around 4pm or earlier. Having a month off from booze helps people realise that wine o’clock is often more of a habit than a pleasure.

To sign up for Dry January and register for tips and tools to make the most of the month, visit www.dryjanuary.org.uk

For information about other health initiatives in Hertfordshire, visit www.hertsdirect.org/healthinherts