The survey found nine out of ten of the teenagers drank alcohol

The Liverpool John Moores University's Centre for Public Health claims teenagers who buy their own alcohol are more likely to be binge drinkers.

Experts say parents in the UK should adopt a "Mediterranean approach", where youngsters drink in moderation.

The survey suggests 40% of youngsters in north-west England binge drink.

In the UK we still have a great deal to learn about how parents can best act as alcohol role models and educators for their children Professor Mark Bellis

A quarter said they drink at least twice a week and half drink in public places.

The report, which was based on interviews with 10,000 youngsters aged 15 to 16, recommends universal adoption of age checks on alcohol purchases for anyone who looks under 21.

It also calls for tougher penalties for shopkeepers who sell booze to youngsters.

Lead author Professor Mark Bellis says parents should follow the Mediterranean culture of encouraging children to enjoy a glass of wine during family meals.

He says sensible drinking is a "life skill".

He said: "The ability to drink alcohol sensibly is not a gift people are born with but one that must be learnt.

'Monitor spending'

"By the age of 15, the vast majority of young people are already using alcohol and this study suggests that those who do so with their parents are more likely to avoid the most dangerous drinking behaviours.

"In the UK we still have a great deal to learn about how parents can best act as alcohol role models and educators for their children.

"However, a Mediterranean approach to alcohol consumption, with food and with restraint, is unlikely to ever develop in the UK unless parents demonstrate such behaviours and help develop them in their children."