Number of people drinking excessively has almost doubled since just before lockdown

Experts have warned that the number of people drinking at high-risk levels has almost doubled since just before lockdown. Credit: PA

New figures have found a large rise in the number of people turning to alcohol to cope with the coronavirus pandemic. 

Experts have warned that the number of people drinking at high-risk levels has almost doubled since just before lockdown.

Number of people turning to drink during lockdown doubled Credit: PA

There were around 4.8 million people drinking high levels of booze prior to lockdown.

That figure has now almost doubled with an estimated 8.4 million people now drinking excessively.

The Cumbria Alcohol Drug and Advisory Service says calls for people seeking support and advice about drinking have also risen.

The report was carried out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

The organisation has raised concerns that budget cuts to addiction services in recent years, will make many charities unable to cope with an influx of people in need of support.

The college report is calling on the Government to reverse funding cuts and help local authorities work towards investing £374m into adult services.

They say the money is vital to combating the rise in demand for treatment and support.