>I think the UK is the only place I know where tipping bar staff is not the norm ?
>
>When Andy and I used to go to our local pub in Caversham, we always bought the barman a drink - sort of like a tip <s>.

I sometimes do the same - but in return I get more free pints than I buy.
If he pulls the wrong beer for someone he gives it to me rather than throwing it away :-}