Problems mount up for battling Blackpool as NHS bill for pills soars

BLACKPOOL is the misery capital of the country with its residents most likely to be suffering from pain and mental anguish, NHS figures show. 

- Matthew Davis

The Lancashire seaside town, famous for its illuminations, tower and ballroom, is also home to a population prescribed more painkillers and antidepressants than anywhere else in the country. 

Health officials spend £13.19 per patient on painkillers, the highest figure in the country, and another £6.83 per patient on antidepressants, the second highest in the nation.

The total spend – £20.02 – is six per cent higher than near neighbour St Helens, which came in second place with a combined spend of £18.81 per patient.

Out of 106 health areas – called Clinical Commissioning Groups – in the country, the highest 10 spending areas are in the north of England – seven in the north west.