PUB chain JD Wetherspoon has defended its decision to slash the price on five of its drinks at the John Russell Fox in Andover amid fears that it could encourage people to binge drink.

The pub reduced the prices in line with national company policy and started offering cheap meals from Monday 5 January.

The decision is under fire from Alcohol Concern who fear it could encourage people to drink irresponsibly.

A spokesman for the company said: “Wetherspoon runs its pubs extremely responsibly and has excellent management and staff at The John Russell Fox in Andover.

“It doesn’t mean that people will drink more, nor would we let them. The pint on offer has a relatively low alcohol content at 3.6 per cent ABV.”

Pub manager Paul Miller added: “People enjoy going to the pub, however, I appreciate that the economic downturn means that they now have to be more careful with their money.

“I believe that my new food and drink prices will allow people to visit the pub without it costing them too much.

“Unlike most sales that start in January, the offers will not be ending within days and will run indefinitely.”

The pub is offering a pint of Greene King IPA or a bottle of San Miguel for 99p, a bottle of Blossom Hill Rose for £4.99, a single measure of Sailor Jerry rum (and a mixer) for £1.29 and a bottle of Jacques cider (750ml) for £3.99.

The five meals available at £2.99 are cottage pie, chips and peas; ham, eggs and chips; sausages, baked beans and chips; spicy tomato pasta and jacket potato and tuna mayonnaise with a salad.

Paul said: “I’m offering leading brands of drinks at excellent prices and the choice means that there is something on offer to suit most tastes.”