RESIDENTS will be raising a glass once again as the annual Winchester Cocktail Week returns to the city next week.

And the organisers have announced that there will be a Southampton Cocktail Week in July.

The moving spirit behind the event, due to take place between July 16 and 22, is Gary Whiter from Winchester’s Cabinet Rooms.

He told the Echo that planning for the Southampton event was in its early stages but it would replicate the recipe which has worked so well in Winchester.

Tipplers wishing to take part would be able to buy tickets on line which they would then exchange for a wristband and guide to the venues taking part.

“We are in talks with the council and venues and there is already a buzz around the event,” said Gary.

He said he hoped to have a programme of event available by April.

The Winchester Distillery, makers of Twisted Nose Gin, have come aboard as a main sponsor and the event also has the backing of drinks supplier Nectar.

The Winchester Cocktail Week (February 5-11) is in its third year and Gary said: “last year there were hundreds people going around the city with their wristbands. It’s great for businesses who take part, many of which are small and independently owned.”

More than 20 venues have signed up to take part this year and the Cabinet Rooms, which opened in June, is the hub.

The official wristbands cost £15 and will give cocktail-lovers discounts on cocktails and entry to exclusive events and masterclasses across the city.

In addition to bars and restaurants, some of Winchester’s independent businesses are also taking part by offering wristband holders special deals throughout the week, from special offers at Toscanaccio on spirits being used throughout the festival, to cocktail-making equipment at Eclectic Hound. Rawlings Opticians will also offering a limited number of goodie bags including a cocktail glass and the opportunity to win a magnum of champagne.

Gary said: “Tickets for special events are already selling fast so we’re encouraging people to get their wristbands and souvenir guidebooks from Cabinet Rooms as soon as possible to make the most of everything the week has to offer.

“There are some great drinks brands coming into the city during the week so it’s a great opportunity to try new places and discover new favourites.”

Following the success of the 1980s New Romantic Ball last year, the festival’s finale party will take place on Saturday, February 10 with the theme of ‘The Brit Pop Party’.

For more information or to buy tickets, visit Cabinet Rooms, in Jewry Street, or winchestercocktailweek.co.uk.