COUNCILLORS fear a rise in alcohol and cannabis abuse in Teesdale could lead to a growing number of heroin addicts.

The warning was made by Teesdale District Council's community services committee, after a report on substance misuse in Teesdale.

Although the level of drug and alcohol abuse in Teesdale is low, in comparison with neighbouring areas, such as Darlington and the Wear Valley, councillors were concerned that soft drugs such as cannabis could lead to a heroin problem in the dale.

In the last year, recorded drug crime in Teesdale has risen, with only the number of people charged with supplying cannabis dropping. The number of cases of supplying Ecstasy has risen from one to eight since August 1999. Possession of cannabis has risen by nine cases, possession of Ecstasy by four, and possession of heroin by one.

Councillor Ken Hodgson said the potential for bigger drug problems was a serious issue.

He said: "We should stamp down on soft drugs before it leads to a bigger problem."

Other members highlighted under-age drinking, and called for more to be done to monitor the problem.

Councillors were commenting on a report by the council's community safety co-ordinator, Elaine Baker.