Secondary school students in Cumbria are set to receive a hard-hitting lesson on the dangers of underage drinking in an effort to drive down alcohol consumption and harm among young people.

'Smashed', an international theatre production developed and presented by Collingwood Learning and supported by Diageo, will visit nine secondary schools across Cumbria between January 16 and 20.

These will include St Bernard's Catholic High School and Furness Academy in Barrow, Cartmel Priory C of E School, and Kirkby Stephen Grammar School.

The programme combines drama with interactive workshops to help young people understand the facts, causes, and consequences of alcohol misuse and the risks of underage drinking.

Government data shows that hospital admissions for alcohol-specific conditions among under-18s in Cumbria are above England's national average (37.0 per 100,000 versus 29.3 per 100,000).

Each 'Smashed' session combines a 25-minute dramatic performance with a 35-minute interactive workshop which allows students to reflect on vital underage drinking themes and answer questions about the choices made by the characters in the performance.

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Chris Simes, Managing Director at Collingwood Learning, said: "It's brilliant to be returning to the North West to inspire young people with the Smashed Live programme.

"These engaging and lively shows have a proven lasting impact and make a real change from the typical classroom session."

Tim Farron, Liberal Democrat MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale and Spokesperson for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, said: "Smashed is a fantastic project that educates students about the dangers of underage drinking outside of the typical classroom environment.

"I'm delighted to see the team back touring the North West and visiting schools across Cumbria, and I welcome the positive impact initiatives like this have on local communities."

Nuno Teles, Managing Director at Diageo GB, said: "'Smashed' aims to empower young people by equipping them with the knowledge, awareness, and confidence to understand the dangers of underage drinking.

"Creating a positive impact in the communities in which we operate is critical to our business and the Smashed programme has a proven track record of delivering outstanding results in secondary schools.

"We are so delighted to welcome the tour to Cumbria so we can empower the next generation to drink responsibly."