TO many young people cocaine is seen as a good-time drug — and taking it while under the influence of alcohol is becoming increasingly popular.

The consequences can, and have, proved to be fatal, because the two substances create a third intoxicant known as cocoa ethylene which can increase the risk of sudden death.

Now Bolton’s Drug and Alcohol Action team (DAAT) has launched a new website, “Drinking with Charlie”, which offers advice, information and guidance on the dangers of the cocktail.

Jan Hutchinson, the Director of Public Health at Bolton’s NHS Trust, said: “There is increasing evidence that taking alcohol and cocaine together can badly affect the heart, the liver and the brain.

“This campaign emphasises these dangers for young adults in Bolton. Research shows higher ‘party drug’ use among young adults, and this group also use the internet more, so it made sense to provide a tailor-made internet-based programme for them.”

The website was launched yesterday at The Bar, in Nelson Square, Bolton, with the support of Bolton’s top police officer Chief Superintendent Steve Hartley. He said: “There is not much information out there about what this combination does and that’s why this website is very important. People can look at it and see the damage these drugs are doing.”

Ch Supt Hartley was also concerned that the combination could affect behaviour. People can become violent and this can mean people can get criminal records or even end up ruining peoples lives,” he added.

It is hoped the information on the website will also be of use to families, carers and friends of people who may be using alcohol and cocaine.