Buckfast kids

Neighbourhood Inspector, Catherine Magee, revealed the shock figure on Friday, and said that local police are doing all they can to stamp out the problem.

The un-opened alcohol included Buckfast (strong tonic wine), White Lighting cider, beer and vodka.

The Inspector told The Times that underage drinking is one of the issues that is continually raised at community meetings.

She also appealed for help from the public to find out who is buying the alcohol for the teenagers.

"One of themes in the Policing Plan is to reduce on street drinking and underage drinking," said Inspector Magee.

"At community meetings the issue of underage drinking is always talked about, but we need the help of the public to curb the problem. We always say that if we are out dealing with underage drinkers then we are not dealing with more important crimes, and that's why we are keen to stamp it out.

"Last weekend about 20 litres of alcohol was seized in Coleraine. We're not just talking about alco-pops here, it was strong alcohol."

Buckfast Tonic Wine, commonly known as Buckfast or Buckie, has a 15% alcohol content.

It has a number of nicknames including "Wreck the Hoose Juice", "Commotion Lotion", "Lurgan Champagne" and "Devil's Water".

White Lightning is a cheap white cider which is also popular among young people and students.

Inspector Magee also raised the issue of 'proxy buyers', those who buy the drink and who are breaking the law.

"We are working with all of the off licences in the borough to make them aware of the issue of 'proxy buyers.

"We also want to enlist the support of parents. They will know if their child has been out drinking. They should be proactive and deal the problem straight away. Find out who purchased the alcohol and let us know, don't wait until we have to bring your teenager home in a police car."

Inspector Magee said that the yound drinkers in Coleraine aged between 13 and 17, but added that there was always an opportunity for younger children to get involved.

"Research shows that the earlier a child starts drinking the risk of developing alcohol related problems in later life is. Other risks include depression and problems with brain development."

Advice is available in the 'You, your child and alcohol' leaflet which is available at libraries, health centres and community centres.