PUNTERS in Bridport raised a glass as part of a world record attempt as the nation said cheers to beers.

As part of the inaugural Beer Day Britain, beer-lovers across the country toasted the nation’s iconic drink - and attempted to achieve a world record in the process.

Boozers in Bridport gathered at The Ropemakers in West Street as part of the challenge on Monday,which aimed to celebrate the beverage on the same day as the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta.

The event aimed to raise the profile of beer as Britain’s national drink and to celebrate the country’s brewing heritage, with the record attempt taking place at 12.15pm.

Beer Sommelier of the Year Jane Peyton, who proposed the idea, said the record attempt was timed to coincide with the Magna Carta anniversary as a double celebration of Britain’s heritage, because ale was so central to English life in 1215 that it even gained a mention in the historic document.

Organisers also asked members of the public to spread the hashtag #CheersBDB on Twitter on the day of the event.

Ropermakers landlord John Baker said: “It seemed like a nice thing to do and that Beer Day Britain was worth supporting.

“Real ale and cask ale is becoming ever more popular and it’s an important part of our national heritage.

“But it’s also a celebration of local aspects of brewing too - all our beer comes from Palmers so it’s supporting them too.”

Representatives from Palmers Brewery also took part in the ‘cheers’ at the pub, and Mr Baker added they were optimistic the popularity of the annual event would increase as time went on.

He said: “Most people who attended today think it’s a good idea and we are hoping in future years that the event will grow and become more popular.”

For more information about the record attempt or Beer Day Britain, visit beerdaybritain.co.uk