Rail firm launches beer for festive safety campaign

The launch of the low-alcohol beer aims to encourage responsible drinking

A rail operator has created a low-alcohol beer as part of a campaign to improve passenger safety over Christmas.

Avanti West Coast has partnered with Birmingham Brewing Company to launch Safety Thirst – a 0.5% pale ale which will be sold on trains to encourage people to drink responsibly.

As part of the campaign, a choir made up of Avanti West Coast employees performed a song titled Safety Thirst, to the tune of Jingle Bells, at Stafford station.

According to the operator, rail-related accidents where intoxication is a possible factor increase by about 45% during the festive period.

Dave Whitehouse, director of safety, security and environment at Avanti West Coast, said: "This time of year, our network is busier and our staff are on hand to help everyone get to their destination safely.

"The Safety Thirst campaign is a great reminder to drink responsibly to create a more enjoyable travel experience for everyone taking a journey with us as well as our colleagues."

A choir made up of Avanti West Coast employees performed at Stafford station

Andy Milford, from Birmingham Brewing Company, said Christmas was a time for everyone to cherish being together with their loved ones.

"We want to ensure that everyone gets home safely to be able to enjoy it to the fullest," he added.