London ambulance services responded to more than 6,650 alcohol-related incidents last summer making up seven per cent of their total call-outs.

Richmond Council and Richmond Clinical Commissioning Group are joining a London Ambulance campaign to encourage people to watch what they drink this summer and remember to look after their friends when out drinking, so they don't end their night in the back of an ambulance.

The summer figures were higher than those recorded in December's party season and resulted in crews treating drunk and disorderly patients rather than those who are potentially seriously ill or injured.

Dr Graham Lewis, chair of Richmond CCG, said: “We are really pleased to be supporting this campaign which reminds people to take care when they are out enjoying themselves this summer.

"It’s important that London ambulance colleagues are free to provide services to those who really need it.”

To try and reduce the number of adults drinking to excess over the summer, London Ambulance, Richmond Council and Richmond CCG are encouraging people to:

Eat before drinking

Make sure you eat before you go out or start your night somewhere that serves meals or snacks. It’ll provide more energy, and lessen your hangover the next day.

Try pacing and spacing

Having a soft drink or some water between alcohol drinks slows the rate of your drinking.

Drink smaller drinks

A large glass of wine in most bars is equivalent to a third of a bottle!

Keep a check on how much you’re drinking: The ‘One You Drinks Tracker’ will help you keep track of how much you are drinking and spending.

Look after each other

Look after your friends and colleagues and make sure you know how you are getting home at the end of the night.

Plan your journey home

Don’t leave it to chance - think about how you’re going to get home, and who with, before you go out. Make arrangements before you start drinking, and make sure you don’t get left to walk home alone.

Cllr Mark Boyle, Richmond Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: "This initiative is to encourage people to watch their drinking in the summer months and to watch out for their friends on nights out. We know that with the warmer weather and lighter evenings, people do tend to drink a little more than usual at picnics, barbecues, pub gardens and festivals.

"This is a reminder that it’s not necessary to over indulge to have a good time."

In addition, residents are encouraged to download ‘ Circle’ a personal safety app which enables users to stay connected to friends and family, if they find themselves in a difficult or vulnerable situation.

Launched by London Councils, it aims to make it easy to stay safe and connected when out socialising.