Shocking statistics released by the government over the Easter weekend show that last year almost 4,000 children were hospitalised in the UK suffering from the effects of alcohol.

The figures were released in order to highlight the problem of underage drinking in this country. Of the 3770 child drinkers aged between 11 and 15 who were hospitalised, many were treated for mental and behavioural disorders, liver disease or toxic poisoning brought on by the consumption of alcohol.

The British Medical Association has already called on the government to do more to prevent underage drinking. 'We would like to see clear warnings and labelling on alcohol products as well as a ban on alcohol advertising. It is a tragedy that doctors are starting to see serious liver disease in young people because of alcohol. Young people must be made aware that having fun does not have to mean getting drunk three or four times a week. Alcohol is a poison – too much in one go can be lethal, too much week after week kills you more slowly.'

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