YOUNGSTERS have been given a chance to express themselves through an organised graffiti art project.

The teenagers, aged 13 to 18, worked with staff from Resettlement and Aftercare Provision (Rap), a national initiative, to bring some colour to Hartlepool's Mill House Skateboard Park.

Positive messages on an anti-substance misuse theme have also been incorporated into the artwork.

Sue Lester, a Rap worker, said: "The youngsters and staff are really pleased with the contemporary art they have produced and in no way condone the graffiti that can sometimes be used to deface buildings.

"This was a responsible, mature project and the skateboarders have been quick to comment on how the art has helped to make the park much more attractive.

"The artwork also contains some important messages relating to substance misuse, and we are delighted with the overall success of the project."

Other agencies involved in the project were Substance Misuse Art and Hyped, whose multi-disciplinary teams provide specialist support to people under 19 whose lives have been affected by substance misuse.