A major pub chain is offering people a free drink at their local pub with a neighbour next week to combat loneliness.

The offer was launched after research by Greene King showed 47% of Brits admitted to feeling lonely once a week or more since the end of lockdown.

People can head down to your local participating Greene King pub with a neighbour on Wednesday, January 11 and state the codeword 'neighbour' when ordering at the bar.

The firm's research has found that one in four people were keen to build a better support network with neighbours and a fifth of Brits (17%) say that there is a lack of community spirit where they live.

Andrew Gallagher, marketing director at Greene King local pubs, said: "We wanted to start the new year by helping locals to rekindle the feeling of togetherness which has been lost since the pandemic was at its height.

"Local pubs sit at the heart of the community. We want to bring people together, to enjoy a drink on us."

The offer is available between 3pm and 9pm and can be redeemed on selected drinks, including Ice Breaker Pale Ale pint or bottle, a single Beefeater London Dry, Pink Strawberry or Blood Orange gin with Schweppes tonics as well as selected soft drinks.

Norfolk pubs taking part in the offer include The Woolpack in Golden Ball Street in Norwich, the Gemini in Dereham and the King's Head Hotel in Hoveton.

A full list of participating pubs can be found on Greene King's website.