The nightmare for many parents in Sussex is watching their children turn into drug addicts as they grow into adults.

But it is far more likely their kids will become addicted to alcohol than drugs.

Many people do not recognise the extent of this problem because alcohol is legal and advertised widely all over the UK.

But many of the down-and-outs seen on the streets of Brighton and other major resorts are drunk rather than drugged.

Alcohol addiction also results in scores of suicides, while drunks are responsible for much of the violence that takes place every evening in Sussex.

Much more effort needs to be concentrated on bringing help to those who want to try to conquer their addiction.

The whole country needs to look at alcohol in a new light. In this nation, drink is often consumed on its own and in vast quantities. In much of continental Europe, it is used mainly as a accompaniment to food and this produces far fewer problems.

Youngsters need to be taught drink is a fine friend but an evil enemy. Parents and schools must ram this message home.

Unless it is achieved effectively, the result will be more misery for millions of alcoholics and their long-suffering friends and relations.