The RNID has warned that the Christmas party season combined with longer licensing hours could lead to young people having their hearing damage by over exposure to loud music.

A survey of 1,400 people aged 16 to 30 found that 55% visited pubs and bars where they needed to shout to be heard more than once a week, with 75% of these there for up to four hours at a time.

The charity revealed that 44% of young people had experienced ringing in the ears on at least one occasion, and 34% reported ringing or buzzing in the ears on a regular or occasional basis after a night out.

The RNID said that in some bar and club venues, music as loud as an aircraft taking off had been recorded.

They said they were concerned that unless people took steps to protect their hearing, many could start 2006 with tinnitus, which causes a permanent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears, or even hearing loss.

Lisa McDonald, campaigns officer for RNID, said: "With more licensed premises opening longer and playing loud, amplified music, festive revellers in bars and pubs might not realise their hearing is being put at such high risk.

"The endless round of parties at this time of year means that people will be spending more time in bars and pubs and the cumulative effects could add up to hearing loss in later life."