Fewer teenagers buy illegal booze

Some teenagers are still drinking too much, health officials say

The number of teenagers across Cumbria who admit to buying alcohol illegally has dropped by 10% since 2007, new figures show.

Almost 400 youngsters aged 14 to 17 were questioned as part of a study by Trading Standards officials.

The survey revealed that the percentage purchasing alcohol themselves had dropped from 31% to 21%.

But the study also revealed 25% were drinking more than 20 units a week - close to the limit for adult men.

Figures from the 388 young people also showed that 52% drank three times or less every month and 11% never drank alcohol at all - 7% lower than the average for the North West.

The survey, commissioned by Trading Standards North West, is a repeat of similar ones carried out in 2005 and 2007.

'Health problems'

Anne Burns, cabinet member responsible for children's social care at Cumbria County Council, said: "I'm pleased to see that the number of our teenagers purchasing alcohol in Cumbria has fallen by 10% since the last survey was carried out.

"This highlights the good work that the alcohol industry has played in refusing to sell alcohol to under 18s and that our trading standards team have monitored this.

"However the 14-17 year olds who are regularly drinking far too much alcohol are at real risk of major health problems.

"We all need to be aware of the extent of the problem and help them tackle their drinking problems before it's too late."

Cathy Wynne, NHS Cumbria's associate director of public health partnerships, added: "Although we can see some encouraging data in the number of teenagers who claim they don't drink alcohol, the amount of those who do drink is of great concern."