Rugby fans are getting the pints flowing again in the Six Nations

Sport is vital in keeping beer poured in pubs and bars across Britain – during last year's Six Nations Championship, it was estimated that more than three million pints were poured over nine days in pubs.

To celebrate the start of the Six Nations, former England international Ugo Moni and TV star Jake Quickenden teamed up for a challenge that saw the pair sent to visit all six competing nations in less than six days.

Rugby fans were rated as the “friendliest supporters”, ahead of tennis followers and traditional football fans.

I'm a Famous Star Jake admitted that being in the mix with the “hardcore fans” was quite intimidating, but he quickly realized how welcoming everyone was.

“I came into this tournament as a rugby newbie and it can sometimes feel intimidating if you're surrounded by die-hard fans because you're worried about saying the wrong thing or asking a silly question,” Jake said.

“This trip has shown me that rugby fans, especially in the Home Nations, have something special about them. There is a great sense of community in UK sports pubs, and although we are welcomed in every country, there is a sense of inclusivity in UK pubs.” It is on another level.

This has been supported by new research by Greene King, who confirmed that UK rugby fans are the friendliest group of supporters (25%), ahead of tennis fans (21%) and football fans (21%).

The research, which surveyed 1,500 adults in the UK, France and Italy respectively, showed that more Home Nations supporters would head to the pub and get a round of spending around £20 per person at their home Nations, while fans in Italy and France would be cashing in An average of £12.90 per person (€15).

Former England international Ugo Moni said: “Having experienced the Six Nations time and time again as a player and commentator, it is great to learn what the tournament means to people in each country.

“It is clear that wherever we go, there is common ground between fans – a lively atmosphere is a must when people come together to watch the tournament, as well as a very friendly rivalry that is unparalleled in other sports.”

Green King's Michelle West said: “Sport plays an important role in the fabric of UK pub culture and it's clear that pub-goers across the country will be out in force to show support for their teams during the Six Nations.