A SHOCKING report about underage drinking by school pupils in Cheshire has raised concerns over their health.

More than 200 teenagers aged 14-17 were interviewed by the Research and Intelligence Unit of Cheshire County Council and of these a third admitted to drinking that affected their well being or safety.

Several admitted that hangovers had caused them to miss a day or half a day's schooling.

The report revealed 37 per cent of the 200 teenagers interviewed said they had consumed so much alcohol it had made them sick, dizzy and even caused them to fall down.

In addition, 35 per cent said they had been so drunk they had been unable to remember what they did, and 19 per cent had been told by family or friends to cut down.

A spokesman for Cheshire County Council said: "The survey was deliberately arranged so that it was conducted right across the county and was therefore representative of children from all social backgrounds and all areas of Cheshire."

Boozing children too ill for school

The research was undertaken for the authority's third quality of life survey, which monitors public views on priorities for improving quality of life in Cheshire as part of their consultation strategy.

Linda Brown, manager of Cheshire's inclusion and school improvement unit, said: "Sadly these figures come as little surprise.

"Alcohol abuse is the greatest danger facing our youngsters today.

"It leads to crime, domestic violence, anti-social behaviour, health problems and unwanted pregnancies."

A recent national survey of 700 14 to 15 year olds, conducted by children's services, showed 46 per cent of those interviewed had been drinking at home with the knowledge of their parents.

Linda added: "We also need to accept that excess drinking causes horrendous problems - and start conveying that message at home."

The county report highlighted the extent of drug use and bullying.

Half the teenagers interviewed said that drugs were easy to obtain and the same number said they had problems with some kind of bullying at school.

The report found young people's top three priorities were more activities for them, a reduction in crime and disorder and being given an increased involvement in decision making.