Half county's pupils have been bullied

A Cheshire County Council survey has revealed that around half of the county's youngsters have experienced bullying in some form, with 13 per cent being physically attacked.

The survey also discovered that hangovers had led to several youngsters missing school, some on more than five occasions.

Over a third also admitted drinking so much that it affected their well-being and safety.

Linda Brown, county manager of Cheshire's Inclusion and School Improvement Service, said: "Sadly these figures, which broadly reflect the national position, come as little surprise. Our concern was translated into high priority action some time ago.

"Alcohol abuse is the greatest danger facing our youngsters today. It leads to crime, domestic violence, anti-social behaviour, health problems and unwanted pregnancies.

"While a tremendous amount of work is going on in our schools and youth clubs and in conjunction with other agencies like Trading Standards and the police, parents also have a major role to play.

"In this country we have a culture that accepts drinking because almost everyone does it.

"We also need to accept that excess drinking causes horrendous problems, and start conveying that message in the home."

The shocking results were uncovered by the county council's third Quality of Life survey, in which the Research and Intelligence Unit questioned more than 200 teenagers of both sexes.

One in five admitted to being told by their family and friends to cut down on drinking, while 63 per cent believed that most secondary school pupils had taken drugs.

Half of the young people believed that drugs were easily obtained.

Around 92 per cent described their quality of life as 'good or very good', with 81 per cent reporting they liked living in the area.

The survey's findings will be fed into the county council's corporate plan, which includes community safety and helping children and young people to fulfil their potential.