POSTERS designed by two 11-year-old girls are to spread a safety message around South Durham schools.

Police and council community safety officers became so concerned about the number of hypodermic needles being dumped by drug users in the Wear Valley district that they launched their own collection service.

They followed this up by touring schools with a warning to pupils that the discarded needles posed dangers for adults and children.

The youngsters were asked to design posters warning people of the risks involved in handling discarded needles.

Workers from the Dales Drug Workers Forum chose two winners. Each received a £20 first prize given by Drug Action Team co-ordinator David Cliff.

They were Fiona Imrie, of Acacia Road, Bishop Auckland, who attends Coundon Primary School; and Kimberley Singleton, of St Luke's Close, Bishop Auckland, who attends Woodhouse Close Junior School.

They visited the town's police station to collect their awards.

Elaine Baker, Wear Valley's community safety co-ordinator, said: "We were struck by the number of children who had seen needles lying around, and we wanted them to know of the health risks. If they touch the needles there is a risk of contracting blood-carrying diseases such as hepatitis.

"We were impressed by the quality of the competition entries. The winning ones will be laminated and displayed around the district."

Children finding discarded needles should not pick them up and should tell an adult straight away.

During office hours, the collection service can be contacted on (01388) 765555.

Police patrol cars are equipped with a specially designed disposal box. Telephone Bishop Auckland police station on (01388) 603566