Soaps face more alcohol criticism

The UK's top soaps have been forced to defend their depiction of alcohol following fresh criticism from campaign groups.

Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks have been accused of sending out harmful messages to youngsters by airing drinking scenes too frequently.

An investigation carried out by The Mirror newspaper found that the pre-watershed soaps are the "worst offenders" for showing characters consuming alcohol.

ITV1's Emmerdale contained 21 booze scenes in a one-week period. Coronation Street and BBC One's EastEnders both had 16, while Channel 4's Hollyoaks featured 11.

Alcohol Concern's Don Shenker has described the results as "shocking", adding: "Children learn to familiarise themselves with alcohol as another commodity, like bread or milk, rather than a potentially harmful substance.

"Alcohol on film and television often leaves out the possible harm it can cause - binge-drinking may be glamorised and humourised.

"If young people in particular see their favourite characters and role models drinking heavily, we need to think about what kind of message that puts across."

A spokesman for the BBC insisted that the corporation is "always careful to show the consumption of alcohol in context".

He added: "EastEnders is mindful of its family audience and is careful to portray responsible drinking. As with most continuing dramas, it features a pub."

Meanwhile, ITV and Channel 4 maintained that their programmes comply with the regulations set forth by broadcasting watchdog Ofcom.

It is not the first time that soaps have been criticised for their portrayal of alcohol. Last year, a study found that a third of Emmerdale's characters would be classed as "depressed drinkers" in real life.