A GROUP of young people who have stood up to hate crime and bullying are heading to Florida to share their ideas with young Americans.

Members of Dash plc - the Drugs, Alcohol and Social Health crew - are going to Florida to find out more about cultural diversity across the Atlantic.

The group was set up by young people to tackle issues facing their peers such as bullying, substance misuse and hate crime, more than 80 per cent of which is committed by people aged under 18.

Sergeant Mick Hutchinson, of Durham Constabulary, who helped the young people, said: "Many incidents involve abusive, anti-social behaviour, and are caused by a limited knowledge of cultural diversity, and the fact many culprits do not think through the consequences of their actions.

"Dash plc aims to reduce the incidents of hate crime by educating their peers and promoting tolerance and understanding."

Members have raised the money for four people to travel to Florida in February, where will visit local police, youth projects and the Dr Phillips High School in Orlando, the biggest school in Orange County where pupils speak more than 50 languages.

Dash member Tammie Potter said: "We are all very excited about the trip, it is a chance in a lifetime. I never dreamed when I first got involved in this project, that I would meet so many important people, or get the opportunity to travel to America."

More than 200 young people from across the region have taken part in Dash plc workshops since it was set up.