British drinkers fit regional stereotypes

A new study has shown that British drinkers really do conform to regional stereotypes when it comes to their choice of tipple.

British stereotypes regarding alcohol are pretty accurate, new research shows

In a report by NHS Scotland, published in the BMC Public Health Journal, those living in central Scotland, the North West and North East of England were found to have high levels of alcohol sales and higher than average alcohol-related deaths.

On the contrary, London displayed lower than average alcohol sales with fewer alcohol-related deaths.

What’s more, regional clichés regarding alcohol preferences were supported by the findings.

In central Scotland, total alcohol sales were 18% higher per person compared to the rest of the country, with spirits including whisky comprising 29% of total alcohol sales – higher than the national average of 20%.

The West of England is typically known for its cider, which was supported by figures showing cider accounted for 13% of all alcohol sales, compared to a national average of 7-8%, while in Yorkshire beer was responsible for 46% of all booze sales.

The NHS Scotland report deliberately did not rely on consumers to detail what types and how much alcohol they consume, claiming this is often skewed due to inaccurate information being given.

Sales data is a much more reliable way of collating information on alcohol consumption, according to the study.