MEDICAL workers will promote a healthier lifestyle to students starting college next week.

Staff from the health promotions service at Derwentside Primary Care Trust (PCT) will be at the fresher's fair at Derwentside College, Consett, on Tuesday.

The PCT team will raise awareness of issues affecting young people's health, and offer information on topics such as sexual health, drugs, alcohol and smoking.

It will also recruit volunteers to help with a primary schools project in Chopwell Woods, Gateshead.

Kim McGarry, health promotion specialist for young people, said: "The fair will help keep health issues at the forefront of college development.

"Last year's fair proved very popular, with over 300 students taking part.

"We hope we can match the same figures at this year's event."

Other organisations taking part include the North-East Council on Addictions.

The PCT's involvement is part of the college's campaign to win Healthy College status. It has set up a steering group to implement a health promotion strategy.

Ms McGarry said: "Derwentside College is making great progress towards developing its Healthy College status.

"The group looks forward to the inclusion of the health promotion strategy within the college strategic development plan next year."