Page 1 of 2

Patrick Middleton tells us more about the increasing problem of binge drinking.

We all think of France as a place where wine is drunk with meals and everything has a relaxed feel about it. Sadly there is a new tendency to drink too much too fast with the result that there are similar problems appearing in the cities to those found elsewhere in Europe.

What is the reason for this? Well, Patrick explains that despite the various reports telling us that wine is good for us, the amount being drunk is falling. Water is also not going down in the quantities it used to because of more reports saying that mineral water is expensive and generally doesn't offer any real benefits. Even water waiters have not helped. Environmental sources also state that the mountains of plastic water bottles are leading us to pollute our planet even more.


Binge drinking has started mostly in young people. Patrick supplies us with the statistic that in Cannes, 40 of the patients with serious organ problems as a result of drinking too much were under 18. One girl in Antibes was confirmed as an alcoholic at the age of 12! More insights into the current situation are in the programme including the mention of one drink which it is suggested could make you want to eat your own legs!!


Patrick is with us for regular programmes on his area in the south of France as well as intriguing insights into what it is really like to be a long-term expat.


Patrick is the Features Editor of The Riviera Reporter and you can have a look at his magazine or make contact with him at: www.rivierareporter.com

Programmes having the same series.