• It is illegal to give alcohol to a child under five years of age.

• If you are 16 or 17 you can buy or be bought beer or cider to drink with a meal in a restaurant, but not in a bar.

• Except for 16 or 17 year olds having a meal in a pub (see above), it's against the law for anyone under 18 to buy alcohol in a pub, off-licence, supermarket or other outlet. It is also illegal to sell alcohol to under 18's, or for anyone to buy alcohol in a pub for someone under 18.

• The police can confiscate alcohol from anyone they know to be, or reasonably believe to be, under 18 drinking in a public place or a place where they have gained access unlawfully.

The information given here is general. If specific legal advice is required, please consult a solicitor.