Paul Heaton puts money behind the bar at 60 pubs to celebrate his 60th birthday

Virgin Radio

9 May 2022, 12:59

Housemartins and Beautiful South legend Paul Heaton is celebrating his birthday in 60 different pubs today!

No, he’s not embarking on a truly massive pub crawl, but rather is treating people in pubs around the UK to a drink on him.

To mark turning 60 today (9th May), the singer is getting a round in at numerous boozers, even though he won’t be there to enjoy it with punters. 

Paul took to Twitter at the weekend to explain his plan to get the drinks in. He wrote: “To celebrate my 60th birthday (on Monday, May 9) I’d originally intended to do another bicycle tour, visiting and performing at 60 pubs across the UK and Ireland. However, due to recording delays caused by the pandemic, I’ve had to shelve those plans for the time being.”

He continued: “Instead, I’ve decided that the next best way to celebrate this coming of age is to handpick 60 pubs across the UK and Ireland and put a given amount of money behind the bar of each one. Then, both regulars and yourselves can enjoy a birthday drink on me (until the money runs out or the bar runs dry!).”

A list of pubs was later published on Twitter, featuring pubs in places such as Belfast, Dublin, Bristol, London, Liverpool and Hull. Paul said: “It would be great to see photos of you all enjoying your free drinks and celebrations at each pub throughout the day!”

People around the UK and Ireland have indeed been enjoying a pint on Paul, and sharing their thanks online. One person wrote on Twitter: “Happy Birthday @PaulHeatonSolo from us in Leeds! Thanks for the music…thanks for the drinks. Cheers.”

Someone else wrote: “Thanks for the pints.”

Along with a picture of a pint of Guinness, another person played on the Beautiful South lyrics, saying: “Happy Birthday @PaulHeatonSolo. A perfect 10 out of 10 pint.” 

Happy birthday Paul, from everyone at Virgin Radio!