Alcohol has long been the scourge of society.

For centuries, drink has been a pivotal part of life in Britain but the story we publish today is sure to shock right-minded people across the county.

A mind-boggling 5,163 people were treated at Oxfordshire's casualty departments in the past year for alcohol-related illnesses.

And what's more, an average of one every day was patched as a result of drink-fuelled violence.

At the weekends, hard-working staff in A&E spend a disproportionate amount of time treating those who have been glassed, bottled or assaulted in attacks resulting from individuals consuming too much drink.

Of course, we will never be able to stop people drinking and Britain will never embrace the cafe culture seen in France, Belgium and most of continental Europe.

But there is still some hope that over time, people will learn about the excesses of alcohol.

Drink-fuelled violence must never be tolerated and the police must be equipped with powers to deal with the drunken yobs who cause it.