FIREFIGHTERS across Oxfordshire are pledging to stay off alcohol in January and are urging residents to do the same.

Chief fire officer Dave Etheridge and fellow firefighters are supporting the Dry January 2017 campaign to raise awareness of the knock-on effects that alcohol can have on the emergency services and the community.

At the end of the 2016 Alcohol Awareness Week on Sunday, fire crews agreed to back the Alcohol Concern initiative to urge people to take a break from alcohol drinks in the New Year.

The national charity was founded in 1984 and works to reduce the problems caused by alcohol.

Staff and volunteers provide people with information, and advice with their questions about drinking and the problems that can sometimes be caused by alcohol.

It also helps professionals working with people with alcohol problems and campaigns for a different drinking culture.

Hilary Hibbert-Biles, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for public health, said: "Many people like to drink alcohol from time to time but too many people are drinking more than is healthy, many without even realising it.

"Regularly drinking more than the recommended daily allowance can contribute to very serious health conditions including liver disease, heart disease and cancers of the mouth, throat and breast.

"Initiatives like this are fantastic at helping people learn more about their drinking habits and encouraging them to establish a safer relationship with alcohol.

"I wish Oxfordshire Fire Service the very best of luck with their Dry January and I hope they inspire other people across the county to take part."

Joanna Simons, chief executive of Alcohol Concern, former chief executive of Oxfordshire County Council, said: "Dry January is the perfect opportunity to take a break from alcohol and feel the benefits.

"A YouGov poll reported that one in six attempted a Dry January this year, which means there are millions of supporters prepared to take on the challenge.

"It’s great to see Oxfordshire firefighters getting involved and taking part, and we’re looking forward to hearing how they get on throughout the month."

The Dry January campaign is urging people to abstain from alcohol for 31 days in January and make a difference to the lives of those harmed through alcohol misuse by getting friends and family to sponsor them and raise money for Alcohol Concern.

For further information visit dryjanuary.org.uk