Byker Grove stars spread anti-drug message

More than 3,000 pupils moving from primary to secondary schools in Gateshead will be given information on how to avoid temptation.

The awareness-raising scheme was being launched on Tuesday at Kingsmeadow School in Dunston, with the help of stars from the BBC1 show. The campaign, dubbed "Why Worry", is being organised by Gateshead Council.

Drugs advisory teacher, Linda Robinson, said: "Every youngster in a local authority school who is moving to secondary school will be targeted with some frank information on drugs during September.

Spot the signs of abuse

"We want to reach young people, their parents and carers just prior to their teenage years when they are more at risk of exposure to drugs and alcohol."

Campaigners are also hoping that parents will read the information which will be packed with tips on how to spot the signs of drug abuse.

They also want to get the message across that parents should not be afraid to broach the subject with their children.

Why Worry is being backed by Northumbria Police, the North East Council on Addiction (NECA) and Gateshead Primary Care Trust.