THE dangers of drinking are being brought home to teenagers in West Devon through a series of hard-hitting plays.

The Solomon Theatre Company is visiting Tavistock College today (Thursday) with its production of 'Last Orders' which is aimed at drawing attention to the health and social risks associated with excess or binge drinking for 14-15 year olds.

 The initiative is being pioneered by the South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership with funding from Devon Drug and Alcohol Team.

 Last Orders is based around a scenario of two friends, 15 year olds Cassie and Kim, who are home alone, studying. Out of boredom they raid the drinks cabinet and throw a party — with disastrous consequences.

Following the performance, group workshops will explore a range of themes from the play such as social media, anti-social behaviour, illegal purchase of alcohol and age-restricted products, attitude to risk and sexual health, including unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

The workshops are run by the actors who remain in role, meaning students can ask questions to the character for their view points on the issues highlighted in the production.

Ian Bollans, chairman of the South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership, said it was hoped to fund the performance at Okehampton College soon.

He said: 'Last Orders is an excellent way of engaging and educating young people to the risks of excess alcohol.

'It also highlights how this not only causes problems for the individual but for their friends, families and communities in general.

'It would be unrealistic to think that we will prevent young people from drinking alcohol, but we can show them that their choices can have a more positive effect than others.'

For anyone who wishes to find out information on the addiction agencies in Devon please contact RISE (Recovery and Integration Service) South Devon on 01626 351144.