A CHARITY has hit out at the makers of alcopops after a survey revealed children as young as 11 have been drinking them.

The Greater Manchester and Lancashire Regional Council on Alcohol says a report by Health Promotion Wales has proved makers of the strong drinks have double standards.

Liz Smith, the group's Chief Executive, said although firms say the drinks are aimed at 18-25 year olds, the reality is their advertising campaigns are targeted at the under-age.

She said: "Ever since alcopops were introduced we have had anecdotal evidence that children were drinking them and this report proves us right.

"We could be seeing the beginning of an enormous problem of alcohol abuse.

"Surely it is time for action now, not in ten years time when underage drinkers of today are the problem drinkers of tomorrow."

Mrs Smith is also questioning whether alcohol watchdog, the Portman Group, is really effective as it is funded by money from the drinks industry.

The problem of alcopops has been widespread in East Lancashire with ambulance crews in Blackburn reporting a huge increase in the number of youngsters being treated after blacking out during drinking sessions.

And Friday has been dubbed "White Lightning Night" after the popular strong cider drink.

One pub, The Malt and Hops, Blackburn, has cut down on the number of alcopops it now serves.

And all the towns pubs are banning the sale of the controversial alcoholic milkshakes.

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