The dangers of underage drinking

The ‘fingers burnt’ actors perform their powerful drama

Pupils at Middleton Technology School and Queen Anne’s Academy were shown the dangers of underage drinking in a powerful drama by Altru Theatre Company. The ‘fingers burnt’ performance links in with a brand new ‘Responsible Retailer’ scheme which is being piloted in Middleton.

The scheme involves local retailers agreeing to challenge young people who look under the age of 21 in a bid to reduce under-age sales and anti-social behaviour. Responsible Retailers will ask for a valid form of ID from anyone who looks under 21 when purchasing alcohol, cigarettes, knives or solvents.

Andy Glover, Consumer Protection and Registration Services Manager said: “We wanted to get the message across to young people that we are asking Middleton retailers to act responsibly. The drama performance was very compelling and it demonstrated the impact of underage drinking.”

During the performance Clare Ridehalgh, Trading Standards Officer, encouraged the young people to signup to a Validate ID card. As a result over 50 young people from Queen Anne’s Academy signed up to the card.

RMBC Trading Standards, Community Safety, Anti-Social Behaviour Team, Drug and Alcohol Action Team and Licensing are working in partnership with Greater Manchester Police to ensure the scheme is successful in the area.

To date 27 retailers have signed up to the ‘Responsible Retailers’ scheme.