A pioneering project will be launched this month in the battle against drug abuse in West Bowling.

Young people will be made aware of the harsh reality if they turn to Drugs. And parents will learn how to recognise the problems and deal with them.

A ten-week programme will be launched in Bradford Foyer, Coates Street, on June 16. It will include speakers, group sessions and games with resource packs.

People who attend will visit the Bridge project rehabilitation scheme. And the course will end with an outdoor residential education weekend.

Bradford West MP Marsha Singh will present attendance certificates to youngsters taking part.

Youth development officer at The Foyer Tahir Majid said there was concern about drug use in areas including the Ripleyville estate where syringes had been found. He added many people were worried about drug-related crime.

"We hope young people will get a firmer understanding on the issues and harsh realities of drugs. If it makes a difference to any one young person it will have been a success," he said.

The scheme has been set up by a partnership including The Foyer, Inner City Youth Team, Parkside Youth Centre, The MAPPA Community Centre, Youth Services and Police.

Funders include the Area Panels, Youth Services, Safer Cities, West Yorkshire Drugs Prevention Team the Council and Health Authority. Marks & Spencer is sponsoring part of the event.

The course is open to people living throughout the area and it runs until August 16.

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