A RISING US singing star is to back drugs education drives during a North-East concert date next month.

Seventeen-year-old Ashley Jay has built her career performing for organisations benefiting children throughout the US, and is involved with the country's Drug Abuse Resistance Education (Dare) project.

The Californian country singer, who was well received by British audiences on her maiden whistle-stop visit last August, returns for a four-date concert tour in February.

Backed by her five-piece band, and supported by local country duo, The Ryes, she can be seen at the Empire Theatre, in Consett, on Saturday, February 10.

As well as the evening show, she has agreed to discuss the Dare project at a "youth chat shop", involving representatives from groups that are working in young people's and addiction-related issues in the area.

Derwentside District Council executive cabinet member Jean Huntley said: "Young people relate to young people, and it would seem that this is an opportunity to mix business with pleasure."

Tickets cost £5, and £3 for under-18s. Call (01207) 218171 for further information.