A PIONEERING scheme to tackle the menace of drugs and alcohol abuse among youngsters is about to be launched.

Education groups in a large rural area of North Yorkshire have been awarded a grant of almost £50,000 for the project, which aims to steer young people towards a healthier life-style.

The cash, from the Health Authority Charitable Trust Fund, will launch the three-year project, providing eight specialist workers to support people aged under 25 across Hambleton and Richmondshire.

The Community Education Drugs Initiative will attempt to educate youngsters about the dangers of drugs and alcohol abuse.

Workers will operate in Northallerton, Richmond, Bedale, Risedale, Wensleydale, Thirsk, Stokesley and Easingwold.

Their work will focus on supporting and counselling people at risk of drugs or alcohol misuse, advising other youth workers, training young people over 16 to have a positive influence on those around them, and using the latest technology to get the message across.

Lifelong learning manager at Northallerton College, Andy West, said: "This is a new and dynamic approach to the menace of drugs and alcohol.

"We anticipate reaching more than 300 young people across Hambleton and Richmondshire and, subsequently, a reduction in the number at risk of substance abuse.

"Some of these will be referrals from the network of youth workers, schools and specialist agencies. The workers will generally promote the safer use of substances through raising awareness and preventative measures."

Workers will be giving advice at youth centres and mixing with young people on the streets to promote the scheme.

Local funding of more than £17,000 is to be added to the grant of £49,995 which came through the Newcastle and North Tyneside Health Authority.

Mr West said the three-year scheme would start in the autumn with the recruitment of the eight workers.

After three months' training, their work will begin in January.

The eight posts will be advertised in September, although anyone interested in applying can contact Mr West, at Northallerton College, on (01609) 773340, extn 256