Wiltshire, New Forest and Test Valley record 108 alcohol related deaths in 2022
That's a huge increase on the year before
New data has revealed there were 108 alcohol related deaths in Wiltshire, the New Forest and Test Valley in 2022.
Nationally, drinking's attributed to have caused 8,416 deaths in England and Wales last year - that's a record number of people in 12 months, as it's thought heavier drinking in the pandemic took its toll.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics show there were 58 deaths related to alcohol in the Wiltshire Council area.
That's a 56% rise on the previous year.
24 deaths were recorded in the Test Valley Borough Council area during 2022 - a rise of 140% compared to 2022.
There were 26 alcohol related deaths in the New Forest over the same period - a fall of three people against the year before.
It’s believed the pandemic caused more people to turn to drinking, but also stopped them from seeking help.
Men over 50 are reportedly the most affected.