DRUNKEN behaviour is a worry for more than 70 per cent of people in Bury who were surveyed as part of the Big Drink Debate.

And one-quarter of drinkers admitted they consumed alcohol to harmful proportions.

Almost 550 locals took part in the questionnaire for the biggest-ever survey on alcohol in the North West.

They were among 30,000 across the North West to complete the exercise.

Launched by Our Life, in partnership with Government Office and NHS North West and The Department of Health, the aim of the Big Drink Debate was to find out what people’s views were on drinking and how it affected their health, safety and well being.

The survey revealed: l Almost three quarters of respondents (74.1 per cent) say that they either don’t drink or do drink, but at a sensible level. However, a quarter of respondents (25.5 per cent) indicate that they drink at either a hazardous or harmful level l More than half (50.3 per cent) believe action is needed to tackle alcohol-related behaviour and as many see alcohol-related crime as a concern locally (52.2 per cent) l An overwhelming majority (80.2 per cent) think low prices and discounts increase people’s alcohol consumption.

Dr Peter Elton, director of public health for NHS Bury said: “As people drink more and stronger alcohol, we have started to see people admitted to hospital in their teens and 20s with alcohol problems with some dying from liver disease in their 30s.

“Cutting excessive drinking will improve health, cut violence and remove a cause of crime.”

Bury councillor Beverly Sullivan, executive Member for health and well-being, said: “The new figures give us a real insight into the impact of alcohol in Bury and will help us to develop strategies to challenge individual’s relationships with alcohol, alcohol-related ill health and the social consequences we currently face.”

Anyone who would like help or advice about alcohol-related issues can contact Bury’s substance misuse service on 0161 253 6488.

Under 18s are advised to contact Early Break on 0870 389 2080. NHS health trainers (alcohol) are also available on 0845 071 0699.