A MINISTER who lost his son to drugs was the special guest at yesterday's launch of a parents' helpline.

Cabinet Office Minister of State Ian McCartney was at Middlesbrough's Cellnet Stadium to announce the start of Parentline Plus in the Tees Valley.

Speaking about the problems parents can face in coping with their children, he revealed his sorrow at the death of his son Hugh.

He said: "Hugh died in 1999. Like many others before him, he blundered into the drugs lifestyle, becoming addicted to heroin. When he died, a great part of me died with him. Having experienced something as painful and traumatic as this, I cannot underestimate how important parental support is."

Aimed at giving parents in the Tees Valley 24-hour access to help and advice, the service already operates elsewhere.

It will cover problems like bad behaviour, drugs misuse and bullying.

As well as telephone advisors, who can be contacted on 0808 800 2222, parents can access an interactive website at www.parentlineplus.org.uk. A network of parenting courses and easy to read information leaflets will soon be available.

Mr McCartney said: "Parentline Plus is among a number of organisations seeking to change the culture around parenting and to say that asking for help is a sign of strength."

Yesterday's launch was attended by more than 100 people.

Barbara Robinson, whose son Tony died from drugs and alcohol abuse, said: "As parents, we feel so alone. We would have liked more support, someone to talk to."