There is an above average number of alcohol-related incidents in South Gloucestershire, public health figures reveal.

Last year 1,812 people per 100,000 were admitted to hospital for alcohol-specific conditions, with the national average being 1,145.

This week - Alcohol Awareness Week - healthcare professionals at Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group are urging people to drink sensibly and to seek help for alcohol related illnesses before they get worse.

Dr Lesley Ward, local GP and clinical lead for unplanned care said: “Drinking alcohol to excess can have serious consequences for your health as well as making you vulnerable to accidents and injury.

"By following the national guidelines on alcohol unit intake and stopping when you have reached your limit you are more likely to avoid illness and injury and long-term damage from drinking. Alcohol-related hospital admissions also put a strain on our A&E departments so drinking less is beneficial for everyone.”

Find out more about Alcohol Awareness Week at alcoholchange.org.uk