HUNDREDS of the region's young people have entered an art competition that aims to raise awareness about HIV and Aids.

The competition was organised by health promotion workers in Newcastle and North Tyneside Primary Care Trusts.

The winners' work will go on show in an exhibition at the Biscuit Factory art gallery, in Newcastle, on World Aids Day, December 1.

Dr Leonie Walker, of the Newcastle Primary Care Trust health promotion team, said: "Many sexually transmitted infections are on the increase in the North-East and health staff are worried that cases of HIV and Aids may also rise unless people become more aware of the disease."