BINGE drinking teenagers, abandoned by their mates, could soon die, a paramedic has warned.

A 14-year-old girl found collapsed on Runcorn busway this weekend was so inebriated, she couldn't stand up.

When police carried her home to Higher Runcorn, they found her parents out and her 17-year-old brother drinking with pals.

She is the latest victim as emergency crews report an alarming rise in youths discovered drunk and unconscious, often in lonely, remote spots.

"They could choke and die," warned Steve Evans, a paramedic for 32 years. "We are getting on average three 11-13-year olds every Friday in Widnes and Runcorn. They are drinking vodka and super strength lager."

Sgt Andy Delooze, of Halton's Community Action Team, said: "This 14-year-old girl was so intoxicated, she couldn't stand up. Her friend had walked off and left her.

"These individuals could choke on their own vomit or become victims of crime themselves. They could have property taken or be assaulted."

Paramedic Steve devised a hard-hitting poster campaign - Don't Walk Away and Let A Friend Die - urging youngsters to look after their friends.

"These kids go to secret, hidden places like school fields or Runcorn Hill in Runcorn, have a party and binge on alcohol," he said.

"Whenever one of them becomes sick or unconscious, the rest are running away because they are frightened. The danger is if these kids pass out on their back and are abandoned by their friends, it is very easy for them to vomit, chock and possibly die."

Steve has been invited to give his SOS message to Tony Blair and top ministers at a responsible drinking forum in London.

"These kids are dicing with death. What we need is for someone to put their hand in their pocket and talk to kids directly. It is only a question of time before someone dies."

Steve's poster can be found on the website www.merseyambulance.nhs.uk.