It's National Finish at 4pm Day

The weekend will feel that little bit closer for Britain's workforce today as employers embrace National 4 pm Finish Day.

Workers will be free to hit the pub early as Friday becomes an hour shorter for those who usually plough away from 9-5 pm.

The 4 pm Finish Day is the brainchild of Red Bull, who says the campaign "isn't about slacking off," but about increasing productivity.

The energy drink brand is motivating workers to "grab a Red Bull, smash through your work and then get down to more important business, like enjoying the weekend."

Red Bull said: “#4pmFinish isn't about slacking off, it's about being more productive.

"That's why we've surveyed a range of experts – including a scientist, an ex-sports star and a range of successful entrepreneurs – for their tips on clearing your in-tray.”

Workers in the UK average around 36.5 hours per week, which is a drop from 37.1 in 2000. But Londoners put in some of the longest shifts in Europe; a 70 hour working week is not uncommon in the capital.

Studies have shown that a six hour working day might actually boost productivity. Sweden experimented with a shorter day in a two-year pilot scheme with nurses in Gothenburg.