A DRUGS treatment service has already attracted one fifth of its target number of patients for the year - just two weeks after it opened.

The Fulcrum Medical Practice, which operates from premises in Grangetown and Middlesbrough, Teesside, was set up as a first stop for drug abusers to access general treatment and specialist help in kicking the habit.

Staff aimed to reach a target of 500 patients by the end of the year, but have already registered 100.

"The first few weeks have been much busier than we were expecting and we are delighted that already, we have 100 patients on our books," said practice GP Ian Guy.

"Some patients have transferred from existing GP practices in the area, but many others have come along because they have read about the service in the papers, have seen some of our publicity flyers, or have heard about it through word of mouth.

"We have had some really positive feedback from the patients about this new service."

The practice is a Personal Medical Services pilot scheme operated by Middlesbrough and Eston Primary Care Group, working in partnership with other organisations.

Its aim is to coax more drug abusers into treatment and rehabilitation more quickly, to limit the damage done by drugs. Abusers' families can also be registered.