THE steps being taken to stop bullies making other youngsters' lives a misery will be highlighted at an exhibition in Durham next month.

Schools throughout the county will visit Happier in School, which is being held at County Hall from Monday to Friday, July 10 to 14.

The event, which will be opened by North-East agony aunt Denise Robertson, will focus on the work of Durham County Council's Anti-Bullying Service and the help that is available for youngsters being tormented by their peers.

One of the victims, a year eight boy, told service staff: "It makes me so angry, the name calling and the bullying, but they're bigger than me and I can't do anything."

A year three girl said: "It all got sorted out at school, but I can't go out now. They get me in the park."

Officials say that the service is making an impact on the problem. In primary schools, it has helped teachers to introduce "buddy" schemes.

Some secondary pupils have also been trained as counsellors to help bullied schoolmates.

Val McFarlane, of the service, said: "Bullying can be a major problem throughout the country, both in and out of schools.

"Durham County Council decided to tackle the problem in this area by setting up its own anti-bullying service.

"The Happier in School exhibition is being held to celebrate the success of the schemes already going on in County Durham and also to raise awareness of the anti-bullying service and how we can help."