Eubank delivers drugs blow

Eubank wants to knock out drugs

Former world middleweight boxing champion Chris Eubank is helping to launch an anti-drugs initiative in Scotland.

The scheme centres on a websiet which aims to deter young people from falling into the drugs trap.

The site provides information on drugs, smoking, alcohol, bullying, sexual health, careers and relationships.

Professional counsellors will also be available to answer e-mails asking for advice.

The project, which has received more than £20,000 from the Scottish Drugs Challenge Fund and is led by the Inverclyde Drugs Initiative Trust.

Speaking at the launch in Greenock, Eubank said: "Children today face many more temptations.

'My duty'

"I see it as my duty as a parent and as a leading sportsman to encourage and develop children into other areas, away from any involvement in drugs."

He is touring schools in the area to promote the website.

A fund-raising dinner takes place on Friday evening with the ex-boxer as the star guest.

Provost David Roach, chairman of the Inverclyde Drugs Initiative Trust, said: "We aim to be different in our approach and I believe this unique site will act as a diversionary activity in its own right as well as providing invaluable information, advice and support for all the young people and parents of Inverclyde."

Strathclyde Police assistant chief constable Colin McKerracher added: "It has been very important that young people have been involved at all stages of the development of this site and that they continue to be involved with the site in the future."