Pharmacists across the county will be offering people help to cut down on their alcohol as part of a national campaign next month.

Drinkers are being called to sign up to Dry January, in which people are challenged to stay off booze for 31 days as a way to have a healthy start to 2013.

Pharmacist Girish Mehta, chairman of Hertfordshire’s local pharmaceutical committee, said: "Your pharmacy team can give you help and expert advice on your health.

“We are actively involved in supporting people to cut back on alcohol, give up smoking and helping you to manage common illnesses and ailments.

"Most community pharmacies have a private consultation room so that you can request to talk to them in confidence and they are open at times that suit you.”

The Dry January campaign has been launched by Alcohol Concern and aims to highlight the problems of excessive alcohol consumption and to raise money for charity.

Those interested in signing up to the campaign can do so by visiting www.dryjanuary.org.uk