EIGHTY people from Ayrshire lost their lives to alcohol-specific causes last year, according to shocking statistics which have revealed the area’s booze death rate.

Figures published by National Records of Scotland showed that there were 80 alcohol-related deaths in the area in 2023, down by six on the previous 12 months.

While figures for East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire both decreased, the number of deaths in North Ayrshire increased by one.

The figure means that on average more than six people died due to alcohol-related issues every month in Ayrshire last year.

In East Ayrshire, 27 people lost their lives due to alcohol last year, compared to 28 the previous year.

In North Ayrshire, 30 people lost their lives due to alcohol in 2023, up from 29 in the previous 12 months.

In the south of the region, the figure for 2023 was 23, compared to 29 the year before.

Across Scotland, 1,277 people died from conditions caused by alcohol in 2023.

This was one death more than the previous year, which was the highest number since 2008.

Ardrossan-based West Scotland MSP Katy Clark has called for immediate action to address the problem in Ayrshire.

Ms Clark said: “Every death is a personal tragedy. These numbers represent real families and communities devastated by alcohol.

"We need stronger prevention measures to save lives.”

The politician is calling for enhanced prevention, addiction support, and public education, stressing the need for accessible services and targeted campaigns to address alcohol dependency’s root causes.

Ms Clark added: “These deaths are preventable. We must take decisive action - improving support, education, and investment to tackle addiction and its underlying social issues.

"The time to act is now.”