A SERVICE offering help and treatment for head lice is being expanded.

Since September 1999, all pharmacists in Sunderland have provided the service for people registered with a doctor in the city.

It has proved so successful that it is now being made available to anyone living within the city boundaries.

People can visit their local pharmacy for advice and treatment, with treatment being provided free for those who do not pay for prescriptions.

Parents are advised to check their children's heads for lice before they return to school.Pharmacists will explain the best way of doing this.