It is the middle-aged professionals, who are Britain’s problem drinkers instead of the turbulent teenagers, according to the country’s Office for National Statistics.
Twenty-two percent of the men aged 65 and over drink almost every day in comparison to barely three percent of those aged 16 to 24, the Daily Express reported.
Campaigners warn the epidemic is taking its toll on the nation’s health.
Eric Appleby, of Alcohol Concern, said: “These new statistics expose the hidden truth about alcohol and middle England.
“Many over-45s drink daily, and those from professional or managerial households drink more. While drinking is decreasing among younger age groups, the middle-aged middle classes are taking risks with their health, increasing their likelihood of liver disease, stroke and cancer.”
Binge-drinking is more common among the young. Almost a quarter of men aged 16 to 24 admit drinking more than eight units of alcohol in a day.