David Beckham overcame many a fierce opponent during his illustrious playing days, and now he can add Alcohol Concern to his list of scalps. The charity complained about his TV ad for whisky brand Haig Club, which he launched in partnership with Diageo, arguing it would appeal to children. But the advertising watchdog ruled that the former England captain was simply too old to appeal…

William Grant has prevailed over Alcohol Concern after the charity reported it to the advertising watchdog over an ad that stated: “Without Warninks advocaat it just wouldn’t be Christmas.” Alcohol Concern called the ad irresponsible, and complained that it implied that drinking alcohol was a key component of the success of a social event. But William Grant successfully argued the claim was a light-hearted reference…

Triumphant sports people bouncing up and down in front of hoardings with the names of beer brands on them could soon be a thing of the past. So too could spirit-branded tents masquerading as cocktail bars-cum-nightclubs at music festivals. Even staid, middle-aged affairs such as jazz and literary festivals could find themselves light of a benevolent drinks sponsor or two if Alcohol Concern gets its way.

Alcohol Concern has called for a ban on all alcohol advertising at sport, cultural and music events. The campaigning charity says the measure is necessary to “protect children and young people from excessive exposure to alcohol advertising”. It has released a report in which it claims self-regulation of alcohol advertising isn’t working, claiming high levels of brand recognition among young people.

Alcohol Concern slammed retailers for selling Champagne and popular drinks brands at “pocket-money prices” as Christmas price wars raged during Alcohol Awareness Week. Asda was selling Champagne at £6 a bottle this week and the charity warned supermarkets must take their share of the blame for Britain’s “binge-drinking epidemic”. Eric Appleby, chief executive at Alcohol Concern, told OLN: “Alcohol misuse is a serious problem and…