YOUNGSTERS with drink-related problems have formed a football team to put themselves back on the straight and narrow.

Health workers have reported a transformation in the group of teenage boys from Darlington since organising regular matches and training sessions. In some cases it has been more effective than clinical treatment.

The youngsters, most with drink issues and some who have used drugs, meet twice a week at Haughton Education Village to play football.

And as well as beating substance misuse, the 14 to 16-year-olds have just claimed their first trophies, winning the Zone Active Area 2 five-a- side competition and finishing runners-up in Area 1.

Operated by Darlington Young People's Drug and Alcohol Team, the scheme uses professional sports coaches and is funded by Darlington Drug and Alcohol Action Team and the Youth Offending Service.

Harm minimisation nurse Anthony Saiger said the youngsters had found themselves getting into trouble because of drink, and it was also affecting their health.

"You could see it in their skin and they were getting slowed down by the effects of alcohol," he said.

"They couldn't run for two minutes and now they can play football for an hour-and-a-half.

"They also used to have no patience and wouldn't stay on the pitch for a full game, but now they show real discipline. The football has proved more effective than many clinical interventions."

Mr Saiger said the game had given them an activity to look forward to and had also boosted their self- esteem and confidence.

"They also struggled to get on with other people, but are now pulling as a team which has changed their outlook on life," he said.

"Instead of just looking forward to drinking cheap booze on a Friday night, they are organising and playing matches. The lads tell us they are no longer touching the drink and feel a lot fitter - and they have figured that out for themselves."

One 14-year-old taking part in the scheme said he used to drink cheap cider in the streets and at parties.

"I ended up drinking because there was nothing better to do," he said. "Now I have stopped completely and feel a lot fitter. I think I will stay off it.

"The football is great and we were pleased to win. It has really pulled us together and we are now getting an 11-a-side team sorted and registering it with Durham FA.