200 teenagers across Cheshire were questioned in the survey

More than a third of 14 to 17-year-olds questioned in the county council survey admitted getting drunk and 35% said they suffered memory loss afterwards.

Of the 200 teenagers quizzed, several admitted missing school at least five times because they had drunk too much.

Cheshire County Council said concerns about alcohol and other issues raised by the research were being tackled.

The youngsters were questioned by the council as part of its third annual Quality of Life survey.

We need to accept that excess drinking causes horrendous problems Linda Brown, Cheshire County Council

On alcohol, 37% of children said they had drunk enough to affect their well-being or safety, consuming enough to make them sick, dizzy or fall down.

Thirty-five per cent said they had been so drunk they had been unable to remember the things they did.

Despite the statistics, only 19% had been told by family or friends to cut down on their drinking.

Linda Brown, of the council's inclusion and school improvement service, said: "Sadly these figures, which broadly reflect the national position, come as little surprise.

'Horrendous problems'

"Our concern was translated into high priority action some time ago."

Mrs Brown said parents had a major role to play in educating children about the dangers of alcohol.

Forty-six per cent of the teenagers surveyed reported drinking at home with their parents' knowledge.

"We need to accept that excess drinking causes horrendous problems - and start conveying that message in the home," Mrs Brown added.