SCHOOL pupils have produced a television advert to help highlight the dangers of binge drinking.

Students from Dene Community School of Technology, in Peterlee, and Glendene School, in Easington Colliery, have made the 30-second film which is to be shown in GP surgeries across the district.

Using a grant from neighbourhood regeneration funding, and with help from County Durham Primary Care Trust and members of Easington District Council's Youth Forum, the young people designed and commissioned the advert to be shown on the Life Channel in doctors' waiting rooms.

It is hoped that the adverts will not only raise awareness of the dangers of binge drinking, but also help people reduce their alcohol intake.

Stephen Clarke, Easington council's youth strategy officer, said: "The group believed the issue of excessive drinking was not just a problem associated with the young, and wanted to do this for everyone.''

He added: "The advert puts across the health issues, the social issues related to fighting and domestic violence, and information about teenage pregnancy and the risk of date rape.''

A survey of more than 1,500 young people in the area revealed binge drinking as a major issue among 11 to 16-year-olds.