Female drink death record

ALCOHOL-related deaths among women have hit their highest level since records began in 2001.

Last year the booze toll was eight per 100,000 females, the Office for National Statistics said.

The death rate among men was 16.8 per 100,000.

Scotland was worst in the UK at 20.5 deaths per 100,000 men and women.

Alcohol Health Alliance said: “With alcohol 64% more affordable than it was in 1980, the concern is the harm will get worse.”