THE line between pleasure and pain can be thin where alcohol is concerned.

For many people a social drink at the weekends, or a glass or two at home in front of the television, is a civilised part of life.

Yet there is no doubt that abuse of alcohol causes problems, as the report we highlight today indicates all too clearly.

Dr Gillian Kelly’s report considers the impact of alcohol use on the A&E department at York Hospital.

Her conclusions include the need for hospital staff and police to work together and share information, which sounds sensible. Dr Kelly also points out that many of the problem drinkers are local residents, and not inebriated tourists, which is an uncomfortable thought.