The number of people hospitalised in Shropshire for alcohol-fuelled problems has fallen by four per cent in the last three years, new figures today reveal.

Accident and Emergency departments across the area admitted 2,761 people for drink-related injuries and illnesses in 2008/09.

This compares with 2,891 in 2006/07.

A breakdown by primary care trust showed a 12 per cent fall from 1,315 to 1,158 across the Telford & Wrekin PCT area.

Shropshire County PCT reported an increase of two per cent from 1,576 to 1,603.

Across England, admissions were up by 17 per cent from 420,263 to 490,354.

Last week the Conservatives said they would ditch the “confusing” units system in favour of centilitres – and proposed extra labelling, including calorie content,to encourage safer drinking.

Today the Government announced moves to ban all-you-can-drink promotions and introduce compulsory identity checks.

Health Secretary Andy Burnham said ministers had a duty to respond to rising public concern about the impact of “ludicrously cheap booze”.

The Department of Health said the level of admissions was unacceptable and they were trying to reduce the numbers.

A spokesman said: “We have already taken new powers to tackle the most irresponsible promotions such as ‘drink as much as you like for £5′ and we will continue to look at how we can tackle the problems caused by cheap alcohol.

“People need to be armed with the facts, and that’s what we’re doing with our ‘Know Your Limits campaign’ – making information on alcohol units and the NHS advice available.”