WATER coolers have been installed in schools across Darlington to encourage youngsters to turn their backs on fizzy drinks and look after their teeth.

Darlington Borough Council is so concerned at the high degree of tooth decay among children that it has introduced water coolers to schools in a one-month pilot scheme.

Northumbrian Spring, in Thornaby, has supplied 11 schools with 31 water coolers.

The company has also created cartoon character Dennis Drinkwater to help get the message about drinking more water across to children.

The schools involved are Skerne Park Primary School, Springfield Primary School, Mowden Junior School, Heathfield Primary School, Heathfield nursery school, Branksome Comprehensive School, Beaumont Hill Special School and Longfield School.