THE Brook Centre, which has branches in Blackburn and Burnley, has launched a text messaging service to give young people sexual health advice.

The service will give young people instant access to information on topics, including sexually transmitted infections, contraception and counselling as well as details of the nearest Brook Centre or young people's clinic, all via their mobile phones.

By texting BROOK HELP to 81222, users will receive a menu. Jan Barlow, Chief Executive of Brook, said: "Our texting service will mean more young people have the facts literally at their fingertips, giving them an alternative to our existing confidential online and helpline enquiry services.

"Technology has come a long way in the 40 years since Brook was established, and we aim to make the most of those changes."