A HARD-HITTING theatre production about drink driving and underage drinking has been delivering its message to school pupils.

More than 300 pupils from Whitworth Park School, in Spennymoor, watched the live theatre performance of Smashed.

Performed by educational drama group, Collingwood Learning, the Year 7 and Year 8 students followed the story of three friends and the consequences of drinking.

Now in its tenth year; the play tackles issues such as health, anti social behaviour, underage drinking and peer pressure.

Pupils were also able to ask questions following the play.

The visit was organised by the school's subject leader for Personal, Social, Health, Citizenship and Economic Education (PSHCEE), Amanda Jackson.

Mrs Jackson asked the group to perform after learning they were touring around other schools in Durham and said the experience had been vital to the pupils.

She said: "Students found this extremely beneficial and I am very pleased we had the opportunity for students to have this experience."

She added: "They really enjoyed it because it was so fun and interactive. They could relate to the stories."