A GROUP of Durham residents have passed a drugs and alcohol training course.

Their achievement will enable them to take an active role in tackling drug and substance abuse at community level.

The six residents, who have all lived with some form of substance misuse, were awarded their certificates for the Training for Trainers course, at the North-East Open College Network.

The level three qualification will allow them to help teach others in the community about drugs and the many risks involved in taking them.

The course, arranged and funded by the County Durham Drug and Alcohol Action Team, follows training sessions in drugs awareness.

Each member wanted to progress into helping others to become aware of drug -related issues.

Course tutors Michael Dennison and Jim Gaunt said: "We are keen to help the drug action team with its work to inform community members about the many serious problems that can arise from not knowing about drugs and their dangers."

Mandy English, a parent support development officer with the team, said: "New initiatives like this will help us to educate and raise awareness of drug problems within our local communities, this includes offering support to both families and carers.

"Some members of this group are already moving towards helping other people who have had experience of drug use within their own families.''

Anyone wanting information about future courses can contact Ms English on 0191-333 3237.