A TOP-level conference to discuss ways of reducing the harmful effects of alcohol will take place in Bournemouth.

Health professionals, licensees, police and students will be among the delegates at the Bournemouth and Poole Alcohol Harm Reduction Conference.

The event, which is being organised by Bournemouth 2026, will provide a forum for people to develop sensible ideas on how to reduce the harm caused by alcohol.

But Lorna Trent, Bournemouth 2026 co-ordinator, said they would also be recognising the many positive things that alcohol contributes to Bournemouth and Poole.

"Alcohol has an impact on everything that we want to do in the town - whether it's community safety, the economy, employment or health and well-being. We're looking for ways of reducing the harm it causes without saying We don't want any alcohol'.

"This conference is about bringing together as many people as we can to debate how we can do this."

The interactive conference will include workshops, debates and views from different parts of the community.

Participants will be given information on the services currently offered to people with alcohol problems and ways in which these could be enhanced.

There will also be discussions about alternatives to alcohol and the possibility of opening an alcohol-free bar locally.

"It's about getting people talking and finding out what they want rather than dictating to people," said Lorna.

"This is people's opportunity to have their say and be part of that debate."

The conference will be held on Thursday, January 17 at the Highcliff Marriott Hotel between 10am and 4pm.