Numbers of underage drinkers high in Craigavon

A total of 24 children have been found drinking by police over the past two years, the youngest of whom was just 13 years old.

Police found more than 350 children drinking, possessing or buying alcohol over the past two years, according to statistics given via a Freedom of Information request.

Campaigners called for stricter regulation of alcohol promotions while police urged parents to be aware of what their children are doing. Suzanne Costello, of Alcohol Action Ireland said: “While an increase of more than 20% in reports of underage drinking is certainly worrying, the reality is that reports to the PSNI only represent the tip of the iceberg.”