A survey of 1,250 young people has revealed that drinking in order to get drunk is starting at a younger age.

However, it also shows young people believe activities are important, and that sport and art activities are helping them control their drinking.

Entitled "Binge drinking: young people's attitudes and behaviour", the survey was commissioned by Positive Futures, a leading national social inclusion programme, which is funded by the Home Office, and managed by the independent charity Crime Concern.

The findings were a result of one-to-one interviews with young people aged between ten and 19, who were taking part in the 123 Positive Futures projects across the country.

They include:

* 42 per cent of youngsters began drinking when they were 13 or under* 29 per cent said they drink to get drunk* 50 per cent of parents were reported to condone or not care about their children's drinking.

Clare Checksfield, chief executive of Crime Concern, said: "When young people are drinking young, then prevention work has to start early, too.

"Now is the time to act. We need to tackle a wider drinking culture and together make certain that parents and peer groups are involved."