A Cardiff University study has established a link in the UK between pub violence and happy hour-style drinking promotions.

Researchers studied pubs and nightclubs with a history of violence across five different cities and towns in the UK and found that the premises with the highest levels of violence were most likely to have price promotions on drinks and the greatest change in customers’ intoxication levels between entry and exit.

The team also found that simple observation of customers staggering or slurring their speech was a very accurate predicator of the levels of intoxication recorded by the breathalyzers.

Dr. Simon Moore, who led the study, said: “Our findings clearly show that alcohol misuse and violence are not simply caused by drinkers’ weaknesses…. The legislation requiring bar staff not to serve those who are already drunk should be properly enforced. Our study shows these customers are not difficult to spot – time should be called on those who can no longer walk in a straight line or who slur their speech.

“Measures to restrict promotions and enforce sensible drinking would make night-time city centers healthier and more enjoyable spaces for everyone who uses them.”