PARTYGOERS in Suffolk are being urged to get the facts about drugs before New Year's Eve to ensure they stay safe on the night. Within the Eastern region, 30 per cent of 16 to 21 year olds say they take drugs, according to the Home Office.

PARTYGOERS in Suffolk are being urged to get the facts about drugs before New Year's Eve to ensure they stay safe on the night.

Within the Eastern region, 30 per cent of 16 to 21 year olds say they take drugs, according to the Home Office.

A survey on talktofrank.com found that, of those planning to take drugs on New Year's Eve, almost half - 43pc – plan to combine different drugs and alcohol.

Over 700 people each day use the government's helpline run by FRANK - a £3million campaign by the Home Office, the Department of Health and the Department for Education and Skills, which replaces the National Drugs Helpline.

Patrick Branigan, FRANK spokesperson for the Eastern region said: "Taking any drug is a health risk. When you mix more than one type of drug and drink alcohol you are increasing the risks and making the effects more unpredictable.

"We are encouraging party-goers to get the facts about drugs from FRANK to make sure that they enjoy themselves on New Year's Eve and avoid taking a potentially lethal cocktail of drugs and alcohol which could ruin their night, and their new year."

Drugs minister Caroline Flint said: "We all know the dangers of binge drinking and drugs but people often give little thought to the toxic cocktail of alcohol mixed with drugs. Drugs such as ecstasy and cocaine can be dangerous enough, but add alcohol to the equation, and you could be playing with your life.

"In the twelve months to March 2003 ecstasy use had gone down by 21 per cent amongst young people. This is encouraging but the Government is not complacent."

For confidential information and advice call FRANK on 0800 776600 or see www.talktofrank.com.

Weblink: www.drugs.gov.uk.

Before you go out with your friends, agree that you will all look out for each other.

If you do take any drugs, make sure that you tell your friends what you have taken - it could save your life.

Plan your journey to and from home and use only licensed cab firms.

Avoid going to a club, pub or party alone.

Don't travel with a driver who may be drunk or have taken drugs.

Make sure somebody knows where you are going and what time you should get home.

Think twice before leaving a pub or party with someone you have only just met.