My name is Sam Watson, and I am in recovery from alcohol addiction caused by mental health problems, and I feel that there is a space in our high street for an alcohol-free pub.

Those of us who do not drink still want to go to into town and enjoy the atmosphere and benefits of an alcohol serving pub, such as darts, pool, quizzes, live music or just a place to meet friends. There is a huge gap on the high street for this type of establishment as most café’s close at 5pm. Post covid mental health issues have really come the fore which is something that needs to be addressed by both the medical profession and local community.

My vision to solve this problem is to open Dry Dock, an alcohol-free establishment in the heart of Weymouth town centre that functions as a community interest company offering a safe space for anyone who has had mental health issues, addiction problems or just anyone who does not want to drink alcohol or be surrounded by those who are.

This will be aimed at all age groups, for both local people and/or visitors to Weymouth. We will sell all manner of soft drinks at reasonable prices as well as alcohol free alternatives to beer, wine and spirits including mocktails, alongside a range of hot drinks. We will also offer a range of snacks and cakes to accompany them.

This is a non-profit making organisation and any profit made will be put back into the business to support the mental well-being of our customers and the wider community.

If you are unable to help this project financially, we would still welcome any input you can offer, this may include support, advice, products that could work alongside our offering, music, local artists, furniture, trades people and materials.

My email address is sam.watson@live.co.uk and my phone number is 07740048192 if you can offer any level of support.

Thank you, the team at Dry Dock Pub