A Bournemouth pub is offering a free pint just for registering to vote
No need for cash, a polling card will get you a beer
The Firkin Shed micropub, on Holdenhurst Road, just up from Dorchester House, is offering a free drink for anyone who is registered to vote in the June election.
The ‘Vote This Year, Get Free Beer’ scheme has been adopted by 68 pubs across the UK, aiming to encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote, regardless of political agenda.
34 per cent of registered voters did not vote in the 2015 general election, amounting to more people than those who voted for any particular party. Students are particularly being targeted as 18-25-year-olds are consistently among the group with the lowest voter turnout, so it’s hoped that this scheme will encourage more to participate.
To be served your free pint – or equivalent drink – you’ll either need to bring your polling card or an email that confirms you are registered to vote and show this at the bar.
The pub is open most days 4pm-11pm so you can enjoy a guilt-free night off from revision whilst deciding your country’s future, it’s a win-win!
If you are already registered to vote the scheme offers you the chance to enter into a prize draw to win tickets to various local festivals across the south.
Students who split their time between university and their home address can register in either place, depending on where you think your vote will make the most difference. It’s quick and easy to do on the government website.
Alternatively, you can vote by proxy which means getting someone else to vote on your behalf, or by post if you prefer.
The deadline for registration is the 22nd May so you haven’t got long to claim that beer!