Paul Heaton is buying the UK and Ireland a drink to celebrate his 60th birthday

Paul Heaton is treating the patrons of 60 pubs across the UK and Ireland to a drink in celebration of his birthday, which is today, May 9th.

Intended to "bring people together," and as a thank you to the fans who supported him throughout Covid, Heaton decided to throw a massive birthday party stretching across the two islands.

"To celebrate my 60th birthday I'd originally intended to do another bicycle tour, visiting and performing at 60 pubs across the UK and Ireland," the former Housemartins and Beautiful South singer posted to twitter. "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 and 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)!"

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… pic.twitter.com/lB3cJjf06m

— Paul Heaton (@PaulHeatonSolo) May 7, 2022

This isn't the 'Happy Hour' singer's first charitable act — he recently performed a free show alongside Jacqui Abbot for the British National Health Service, as well as donated money those who lost their jobs after the closure of Q magazine.

"The hope is to bring people together on this day, as 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," the singer continued. "If there's [a pub] near you, please head over on Monday, show your support and raise a toast to me on my birthday!"

You can pick up a drink on Heaton today at the following Irish and Northern Irish pubs:

BELFAST - Robinson's Bar

DERRY - Peadar O'Donnell's

KILKENNY - Eddie Murphy's

TIPPERARY - The Punter's Rest

WHITEWELL, Co. Wexford - The Sky on the Ground

KILLARNEY, Co. Kerry - Courtney's Bar

DUBLIN - Keohoes

GALWAY - Tig Coili

BALLYBOFEY, Co. Donegal - Bonner's Corner Bar

Here’s a list of all 60 pubs taking part in Paul’s birthday tomorrow (Monday). Thanks to all the pubs and to everyone who visits them. It would be great to see photos of you all enjoying your free drinks and celebrations at each pub throughout the day! https://t.co/QNONRGr8Tp pic.twitter.com/xPzE5W4xiN

— Paul Heaton (@PaulHeatonSolo) May 8, 2022