Relationships feel strain of boozing rows

MORE than a quarter of couples have argued because of alcohol, an Edinburgh consultant has found.

Dr Jonathan Chick, a lecturer at Edinburgh University's school of molecular and clinical medicine, helped carry out the research for the organisation Drinkaware.

Fourteen per cent of people have worried about the effect of drink on a relationship, the study found, while more than one in ten said they had been embarrassed by a partner's drunken antics.

Dr Chick said: "While many couples enjoy a drink, for some alcohol can spoil the evening. You don't have to be an alcoholic for alcohol to damage your love life.

"People should think more about the role alcohol plays in their relationship; they might see it's causing more tension than tenderness."