THE Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Drive Out Drugs campaign has been welcomed by a vicar who warned of the dangers of increasing heroin addiction 11 years ago.

The Rev Brian Stevenson, of St Silas Church, Blackburn, highlighted the worrying drugs situation when he was chairman of the Blackburn Diocesan Board for Social Responsibility in 1986.

And he has urged people to encourage children to say no to drugs as well as helping families suffering from drug-related problems.

In September's parish magazine, Mr Stevenson says: "The Lancashire Evening Telegraph is to be thanked for its current campaign against drugs, which has drawn attention to the scene.

"The fact is, however, that there is not the remotest village in the land which is not affected by the misuse of drugs.

"For the sake of all our families - and we are all involved - we must not shirk our Christian responsibilities.

"The health and well-being of our country is at stake."

Since the Telegraph campaign started four weeks ago, 62 people have contacted police with information about drugs in East Lancashire through the Drive Out Drugs freephone hotline.

Before the campaign started, police received an average of around 44 calls a month for the whole of Lancashire.

Officers are now following up the information supplied via the hotline.

Calls to the number can be made anonymously and in confidence.

And callers have been assured they will not be forced to give evidence in any subsequent court case.

So if you have any information about dealers or drug abuse call the hotline now on 0800 555111.

Advice and information on how to beat the evil of drug addiction is also available to anyone simply by ringing the drugs helpline on 01254 677427. Make that call now.

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