Singer-songwriter Paul Heaton has put money behind the bars of 60 pubs across the UK and Ireland to mark his 60th birthday today - and a Swindon pub is on the list.

The ex-Housemartins singer "handpicked" The Glue Pot on Emlyn Square as one of his chosen pubs.

Punters will be able to enjoy a birthday drink courtesy of Heaton "until the money runs out or the bars run dry".

The kind gesture is designed to "bring people together" and is a way of thanking "folk who bought my records or showed me support over the years".

He has encouraged people to take pictures with their free drinks.  

Swindon Advertiser:

 

In a Facebook post he wrote: "To celebrate my 60th birthday (on Monday 9th May) I’d originally intended to do another bicycle tour, visiting & performing at 60 pubs across the UK & Ireland.

"However, due to recording delays caused by the pandemic, I’ve had to shelve these plans for the time being.

"Instead, I’ve decided that the next best way to celebrate this coming of age is to handpick 60 pubs across the UK & 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!).

"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.

"I’ll announce the full list of pubs and locations tomorrow, so if there’s one near you please head over on Monday, show your support and raise a toast to me on my birthday!"

The 'Happy Hour' and 'Caravan of Love' singer owns The Kings Arm in Salford.