Singer Paul Heaton has put money behind the bars of 60 pubs across the UK and Ireland to celebrate his 60th birthday on Monday.
The former Housemartins frontman and Beautiful South singer had originally planned to perform at 60 pubs on a bicycle tour. But after the pandemic caused recording delays, he had to come up with something else.
And in a move that will score a Perfect 10 out of 10 with fans, Paul announced 60 bars would be serving drinks courtesy of him, with the list of those taking part unveiled on his Facebook page today. Newcastle pubs The Tanners Arms on Byker Bridge and The Freetrade Inn in Ouseburn have been handpicked by Paul himself and will serve free drinks either until the money behind the bar runs out, or the bars run out of drink.
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In a post on his Facebook page, Paul wrote: "Both regulars and yourselves can enjoy a birthday drink on me (until the money runs out, or the bar runs dry!). The hope is to bring people together on the day, whilst recognising that many folk who bought my records or showed me support over the years, could do with a wee party, as we come out of Covid and hit potential financial struggles.
"If there’s one near you please head over on Monday, show your support and raise a toast to me on my birthday!"
What's your favourite song by the Housemartins or the Beautiful South? Let us know in the comments below!
And the staff at the Tanners Arms are delighted to have been chosen for the occasion. Staff member Jenny Hann said: "Obviously he's such an iconic person anyway, and we feel very special to be part of it so it's really amazing, it's great.
"We're expecting it to be quite busy! I thought if we were the only one doing it, we'd be really busy but since the Free Trade has it as well, it'll be separated a little bit.
"It's nice for everyone to get a drink in on Paul. He’s put a nice little amount behind the bar for locals to have a nice little drink so we want to thank him very much and we’ll make sure we have a little birthday cake moment for him as well."
Pubs found out earlier in the week they had been picked ahead of the announcement on Facebook on Sunday. And fans praised him for his announcement, with many taking to the comments to wish him an early happy birthday.
Sandy Gooding wrote: "Two nods to Newcastle and your beautiful North fans! Have a great birthday you top man xx."
Helen Tennison wrote: "Happy Birthday Paul. Will raise a glass to you at home. Enjoy everyone. Great thing to do from an absolute legend. Cheers x."
Jim Lambe wrote: "Happy birthday, Paul. Have a great day tomorrow... thanks for a lifetime of musical memories you have given us all... Cheers."
Paul is currently touring Ireland with former Beautiful South vocalist Jacqui Abbott.
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