ONE of the biggest problems faced by the NHS is ill health brought on by alcohol abuse. For those of us who enjoy a sociable drink and can put the bottle aside, it’s fine, but what of those who cannot?
Last year, across Scotland, more than 1,200 licensed premises closed for various reasons – from the smoking ban to the increasing cost of alcohol. So pubs are suffering.
What of pub prices? In Oban, the average pint of beer or lager is around £3.20. A whisky or vodka costs around £2.40 with a dash, not the cheapest night out by any means.