141,000 of us binge-drink

HEALTH chiefs have released shocking figures which show that nearly a fifth of Derbyshire adults, 141,000 people, are classed as binge-drinkers.

Health bosses say the problem in Derby alone will cost them £55m on hospital admissions over the next five years if steps being taken do not work.

Binge-drinkers are people who drink double the daily recommended alcohol limit but are not dependent on alcohol. It includes not only drunken youths in pubs and clubs but those who regularly drink too much at home.

The daily limit for men is three to four units of alcohol and for women two to three units. A pint of strong lager or two small glasses of wine contain three units.

Experts say binge-drinking can lead to risks of developing serious health conditions, ranging from scarring of the liver to breast cancer.

Among measures to tackle the problem are plays warning children as young as 11 of the dangers and hard-hitting internet videos aimed at out-of-control revellers.

Richard Martin, in charge of Derby's alcohol strategy, said the drinking culture needed to change "to one that is safe and sensible".

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