DOZENS of white balloons have been released over Worcester to recognise the hard work done by the county's drug workers to tackle substance misuse.

A total of 150 balloons were launched, each one representing 10 drug users receiving treatment in Worcestershire during the last year.

The event was held at Worcester Rugby Club's Sixways ground on Tuesday, and organised by Worcestershire Substance Misuse Action Team to mark yesterday's National Tackling Drugs Day.

The launch of the balloons also recognised the efforts made by the drug workers to help drug users tackle their problems.

The team help about 320 drug users from Worcester, which accounts for 20 per cent of all those receiving treatment in Worcestershire.

However, team co-ordinator Phil Deakin said the number of people wanting treatment had increased massively in the last few years.

Anyone concerned about someone's drug use can contact Pressure Point on 0800 652 9664, call Frank on 0800 77 66 00, or visit www.

talktofrank.com. Young people who want to talk to about drugs can call SPACE (Substance Prevention Acceptance Confidentiality Education) on 0800 169 6064.