A BARROW third-sector addiction group has advised readers to take Dry January with a pinch of salt.

Underlining the importance of perspective, The Well’s Ged Pickersgill, said: "A lot of people don’t drink in January and then drink a month’s worth on February 1.

"So we mainly focus on breaking it down into achievable chunks. It's helped 35 people at this centre to beat alcohol addiction.

"We still welcome Dry January, since it helps get the issue into people’s heads. But here at The Well we find that taking it day-by-day, step-by-step is the best way to go about tackling alcoholism."

Colin Cox, Cumbria County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: "Millions of adults take part in Dry January every year. It's a great way to kick start the New Year, especially if your resolution is to be a bit more healthy."