YOUNGSTERS in schools throughout Derwentside are being given special information packs to teach them about good health.

Throughout April, reception class children are receiving free, colourful health packs developed by the Specialist Health Promotion Service and school nurses across the district.

The packs include colouring sheets, stickers, head lice detection combs, bars of soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

They also include information about head lice detection and treatment, dental health and hand washing.

Wynn Griffiths, chief executive of Derwentside Primary Care Group, said: "I am delighted that the Primary Care Group has been able to fund these packs.

"Families are vital in teaching children about good health with the support of health care workers, such as family doctors, practice nurses, dentists and school nurses."

The project was set up by Derwentside's Community Reference Group in response to parents' concerns.