EACH January people in Bolton take the decision to ban booze from their diet in a bid to start the new year on a healthy level.

But while the idea of completely knocking alcohol on the head is not welcomed by everyone, the health benefits of doing so cannot be ignored.

The NHS Change4Life campaign outlines a number of reasons why cutting out that glass of wine or G&T will do you good.

As well as feeling better in the mornings, you will have more energy, feel less tired during the day — and your skin may start to look better.

Regular drinking can increase the risk of Cancer of the throat, oesophagus or larynx, breast cancer in women, a stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure and reduced fertility.

Alcohol can also be a big factor in weight gain. Ten pints of lager or beer a week could mean that you are taking on more than 120,000 calories a year.

One annual campaign organised by Alcohol Concern is Dry January, which encourages people to take a month off from drinking alcohol to enjoy the benefits of having a break from the booze.

Debbie Buck, who owns Glamour Bridal and Prom in Bank Street, decided to take on the challenge after falling into the habit of drinking at home.

After a hysterectomy in August last year, she developed very painful joints decided to take the plunge and swap her vodka and tonic for a glass of fresh water.

She said: "I'm not a big drinker but I got into the routine of getting back home after a hard day at work, sorting the children out then having a small vodka and tonic to relax.

"After my hysterectomy started getting really bad joint pain and my doctor said it could be that I am developing rheumatoid arthritis. I read up that eating wheat and drinking alcohol can make it worse, so I decided that I was going to cut them out in the new year, as well as fizzy drinks and generally try and be healthier.

"I was taking so many painkillers for the pain – it was starting to ruin my life. It didn't matter whether I was sat down, lay down or moving, it was agony — my feet, my ankles, my knees and my hips.

"I had my last drink on New Year's Eve and have barely had one painkiller since. I still have some background pain now and then but nothing like I did. I'm amazed."

Mrs Buck, who lives in Westhoughton with her husband David, aged 35, and their three children, says so far her decision has already been worth it.

She said: "I won't lie, it is hard when it's been a stressful day not to reach for a drink, but it's more out of habit than need. I was never waking up with a hangover or anything but I definitely have more energy.

"Another thing that is really good is I have already lost half a stone. I was told after my hysterectomy that I would be prone to gaining weight, which I did, so this was a very welcome side effect.

"I feel so much better I'm going to continue doing this after January, although I will allow myself the occasional drink on special occasions. I'll just keep the vodka out of the house."

Dr Stephen Liversedge, clinical director for primary care at NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), says that while initiatives such as Dry January are supported by health chiefs, the issue of alcohol is a year-round problem.

He said: "We welcome any campaigns or initiatives that raise awareness of the health risks connected to alcohol and it is encouraging that so many people have signed up to Dry January this year. However, we should remember that this is an important issue all year round. I encourage everyone to consume alcohol in moderation and to contact their GP practice if they have concerns.

"Life expectancy in Bolton is two years lower than the England average, and this gap is even wider in some parts of the town. Alcohol related conditions make a major contribution to this. NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group is working closely with GPs to tackle this problem and improve the health of the town."

For those who need help to ban the booze, there are a number of groups available in Bolton including Bolton Integrated Drug and Alcohol Services (BIDAS), which is at Beacon House. To arrange an appointment or to speak to somebody about your situation, contact 01204 557977.

To find out more about Dry January, visit alcoholconcern.org.uk/what-we-do/campaigns/dry-january.