Underage drinkers make up half of under 18s in Noble's

Over half of the under 18s needing treatment at Noble's Hospital last year were admitted because of alcohol.

61 out of 105 12-17 year olds had hospital treatment as a result of drinking.

One of the under 18s was admitted to hospital five times in the period, and was also involved in legal highs.

In total there were 345 alcohol related hospital admissions in 2009 to 2010.

The figures have been published as part of the Chief Minister's Drug and Alcohol Strategy Annual Report.

The report also showed that over half of the cannabis users working with the Drug and Alcohol Team were under 25, as were all 8 ecstacy users.

Most cocaine users and half of those taking heroin were aged 18-34.

Also highlighted are a number of schemes relating to the sale and display of alcohol.

Home Affairs Minister Adrian Earnshaw has described the year as remarkable in terms of the Strategy and its success in various areas.