AN anti-drugs crusader has received a national award.

Antony High, 20, who helps run a weekly drug treatment clinic in Middlesbrough, won the Neighbourhood Renewal Unit's Personal Achievement Award, presented by Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Yvette Cooper.

His name was put forward by Joan Ford, chairwoman of West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust, Craig Waite, neighbourhood drugs co-ordinator, and trust member Andy Housbey.

Mrs Ford said: "His outstanding work has made big, positive changes in our community.''

Mr High helps organise counselling sessions and alternative therapies for people trying to stop taking drugs.

He said: "I feel very passionate about my work because I can help make a real difference in an area that I love and care deeply about.

"A lot more people are now accessing the drug treatment services on offer in west Middlesbrough.

"As a result of this, there are many more people stable in their treatment programme and feeling part of their community again.

"There is also less crime on the streets because there are fewer people committing crime to fund their habit.'