REVELLERS in the region are being warned not to mix drink and drugs on New Year's Eve.

The alert was sounded after a poll of youngsters showed almost half of those planning to take illegal substances tomorrow night will combine them with alcohol.

The stark statistic was unveiled as a warning from Frank, the Government's campaign to fight the misuse of drugs.

Of the 1,005 11 to 21-year-olds quizzed on the talktofrank.com website between November and December, 43 per cent admitted they would combine the two.

Dr Ken Checinski, spokesman for Frank, said: ''Taking any drug is a health risk.

''When you mix more than one type of drug and drink alcohol you are increasing the risks and making the effects more unpredictable.

''We are encouraging partygoers to get the facts about drugs from Frank to make sure that they enjoy themselves on New Year's Eve and avoid taking a potentially lethal cocktail of drugs and alcohol which could ruin their night, and their New Year.''

More than 700 people used the Frank helpline every day in October and advice was given online via 1,724 emails.

Tips from Frank include telling friends what substances you have taken, avoid going to clubs alone and not travelling with a driver who is drunk or has taken drugs.

Drugs Minister Caroline Flint said: ''Over the party season some young people, who have never taken drugs before may be inclined to try... ''All illegal drugs are harmful and no-one should take them.

''We all know the dangers of binge drinking and drugs but people often give little thought to the toxic cocktail of alcohol mixed with drugs.

''Drugs such as Ecstasy and cocaine can be dangerous enough, but add alcohol to the equation and you could be playing with your life.'' Frank is a £3m joint venture funded by the Home Office and the Department of Health and supported by the Department of Education and Skills.