Moyles 'encourages binge drinking'

A new government-funded report has claimed that Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles encourages binge drinking.

Other broadcasters investigated included BBC 1Xtra, Kiss 101, Key 103, Galaxy Birmingham and Kerrang! Radio for the West Midlands.

Research from the University of the West of England found that 73% of comments about alcohol encouraged drinking, while 13% supported excessive binging.

Kerrang! Radio and Moyles's breakfast show were singled out for criticism in the report. It highlighted a conversation between Moyles's team and chef Gordon Ramsay, where they discussed going out drinking.

"Our research suggests that comments about alcohol contribute to the identification and branding of radio output for many stations, as well as being used in an effort to strengthen interactivity between presenters and listeners," said Professor Norma Daykin.

"But we also found examples which proved that making such comments is not necessary, as some presenters were able to successfully create identity and connect with young listeners without mentioning drinking.

"This suggests radio presenters and producers have a choice. They don’t have to encourage drinking to be seen as 'cool' or in touch with their listeners."

A Radio 1 spokesperson commented: "We don’t agree that our presenters encourage a culture of drinking.

"In fact, throughout this week we have run a high profile campaign on the radio and online asking listeners to think about the amount of alcohol they drink and how it could affect their health, looks and behaviour."