SHOCK figures have revealed that more people died in the south west from alcohol-related conditions than ever before.

Public Health England (PHE) figures show that last year, 2,102 people across the south west died from alcohol-related conditions, the highest ever recorded.

This was six per cent more than in 2019 (1,975 deaths) and eight per cent more than three years ago (1,946 deaths).

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole recorded among the highest alcohol mortality count in 2020 with 162 deaths – up from 147 in 2019.

At the same time, PHE has also revealed the most recent number of alcohol-related hospital admissions across the south west for 2019/20.

Alcohol addiction treatment providers UKAT reveals that hospitals were hit with 99,912 admission episodes for alcohol-related conditions.

There were 6,717 admissions in Dorset during this time, a rise of 664 on the previous year.

The has eight residential rehabilitation facilities across the country and has treated more people for alcohol addiction in 2021 than any other year.

UK Addiction Treatment Group head of treatment Nuno Albuquerque said: “2021 has seen record-breaking admissions for alcohol addiction treatment. We believe this is a direct fall-out from the Covid-19 pandemic where unfortunately more people than ever turned to alcohol as a coping strategy, and for some, this developed into addiction.

“This can be a difficult time of the year for a lot of people, regardless of the added stress and worry of the on-going Covid crisis. We’re urging people to try to avoid using alcohol as a way to mask or cope with their emotions. Please remember that although it is a legal substance, it is very dangerous and can have a real impact on your mental health.

“If you’re struggling, we recommend talking to a loved one or a professional, or going for a walk and enjoying nature.”

Visit www.ukat.co.uk/alcohol/v106/ for free help and advice on alcohol. You can also visit www.ukat.co.uk/alcohol/cage-questionnaire/v111/ to check your own alcohol usage.