The latest party must ...earplugs

EARPLUGS are a musthave party accessory, revellers are warned.

Charity Action on Hearing Loss says they can protect you at noisy pubs, bars and concerts.

It estimates six million Britons have damaged their hearing and get ringing, buzzing or humming in the ears – tinnitus – for which there is no cure.

Spokeswoman Gemma Twitchen said: “Earplugs will block out the dangerous sound frequencies, still allowing you to listen to the music.”

David Stockdale, of the British Tinnitus Association, said: “It’s always important to be mindful of noise levels but particularly during the festive season when many of us are out socialising.

“Protecting your hearing is essential. Once it’s damaged, hearing can’t be fixed. Our website has information about sound levels and exposure times and advice about protection.”