THE Mayor of Swanley has spoken about his battle with alcoholism at a meeting to discuss the success of three alcohol clinics.

Councillor Michael Mahy spoke about how he drank two and a half bottles of vodka every day for 20 years. He has now been sober for 18 years.

At the meeting today (JUNE 10) at Swanley Town Council, Mr Mahy explained how the charity, The Kenward Trust, helped to get him back on track.

The trust has recently set up three clinics for people who are suffering from alcoholism and other drug misuse problems, such as glue sniffing.

The clinics are open to adults who have concerns about their own or others drinking habits. It works on an appointment only basis and the clinics offer up to eight sessions with an advisor.

The newest clinic was set up in February this year at The Oaks in Nightingale Way in Swanley. The clinic offers free, confidential advice and support to adults in need.

They are part of the Sevenoaks District Community Safety Strategy, which has been set up to help reduce crime and substance misuse, be it drugs or alcohol which often lead to crime.

The other two clinics have been set up in Edenbridge and Otford.

The 58-year-old said: "I speak from personal experience and know only too well, the devastation and misery that substance abuse can cause to the individual and to those around them.

"If the alcohol clinics and other services had been available to me then there would be every chance that I could have avoided becoming addicted to alcohol."

Counselling sessions can be booked by calling 01732 370 413.