Alastair Campbell signing copies of his book at Coulsdon College

On Thursday 13th February, former Labour spin doctor, Alastair Campbell, visited Coulsdon College in Old Coulsdon to talk to sixth form students about mental health awareness and alcoholism.

Until 2003 Alastair was Tony Blair's Director of Communications and Strategy but he now describes himself as a writer, communicator and strategist. As a recovering alcoholic, Alastair has suffered with severe depression over many years.

As an ambassador for the ‘Time for Change, time to talk’ campaign, Alastair encourages people to be more open about mental awareness, and has written three books on mental illness. After signing his most recent book, ‘My name is…’ he took questions from English and Politics A Level students before addressing a packed theatre full of students from across the College.

He spoke about his concerns about the bad reputation he says Britain has as a country when it comes to alcoholism. He is appalled that you can now buy cheap alcohol in service stations. He said: “We’re like Russia used to be.

They used to be known for their drinking habits.

They have tackled it and they will reap the rewards from that. You won’t see any alcohol advertising in Russia any more, and no branding at sports events. Our sports events are littered with advertising.” As well as banning the advertising of alcohol, Alastair is campaigning for minimum unit pricing.

Coulsdon College Principal Brett Freeman was delighted to be hosting the visit. He said: “The issues which Alastair is passionate about are very real issues for many teenagers. We are pleased that he came in to talk to our students about them.

Our students weren’t backwards in coming forwards with questions for him; this may be as a result of some campaigns we have been running in the College this year to raise awareness of things like mental health and alcoholism.” For more information about the 'Time to Change, time to talk' campaign go to www.time-to-change.org.uk