THE number of people being admitted by North-East hospitals for drinking too much has more than doubled in less than a decade, according to new figures.

The highest increase seen is among 60-64 year olds, which has risen by 258 per cent since 2002/03.

The latest figures, from Balance, the North-East Alcohol Office show there were 8,214 hospital admissions for acute intoxication and harmful use of alcohol last year, compared to just 3,266 in 2002/03 - an increase of 152 per cent. The national increase in this period was 88 per cent.

The figures do not include A&E attendance and longer term illness related to alcohol dependence or alcohol withdrawal.

The research also showed that in the North-East:

*Admissions for 20-29 year olds increased by 166 per cent, with 1,260 admissions last year.

*The second highest increase was seen in the 55-59 year old age range - up 234 per cent.

*Admissions for 10-19 year olds have also risen by 23 per cent with 542 admissions last year.

*The highest number of admissions remains in the 40-44 age range.

Consultant physician Dr Richard Thomas, from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We're seeing more and more people with chronic liver disease, cancer and many other illnesses associated with drinking and we're also seeing the damaging effect it has on other family members and children who may be the victims of alcohol-fuelled behaviour."

Colin Shevills, director of Balance, said: "We know that the more affordable alcohol is, the more people consume. A minimum unit price of at least 50p will make cheap, strong alcohol less affordable to the vulnerable younger and heavier drinkers who are more likely to drink it."