ESSEX County Council are advising people to stay safe and alcohol aware over the festive period.

Now that trees are up and the Christmas jumpers are making an appearance, the festive tipples will begin to flow.

With more than 300,000 Essex residents drinking at hazardous or harmful levels the Public Health team at Essex County Council are urging residents to think before they drink this Christmas.

Cabinet Member for Health Graham Butland said: “Christmas is a special time spent with loved ones and the best gift that we can give them and ourselves is many healthy years together. With this in mind, be aware of the risks and the negative effects of alcohol so that you are able make the most of the holiday.”

Visit www.dontbottleitup.org.uk.