Conference to tackle addiction

Drink and drugs problems will be discussed in Devon

A major conference in Devon is hoping to discover new ways to combat drink and drug addiction.

More than 100 health, police and community representatives are gathering in North Devon to consider how to deal with the impact of drugs and alcohol in the area.

The conference, called Safe and Healthy, is taking place at the Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe.

National charity Crime Concern is involved, and the speakers include South West crime director Paul Rowlandson and North Devon MP Nick Harvey.

Nick Harvey is speaking at the conference

The delegates, who include doctors, nurses, magistrates and drugs and alcohol specialists, are being split into workshops on alcohol, drugs, young people, violence and the fear of crime.

One of the event organisers, Sergeant Geoff Pearce, said they are seeking a community-wide solution to the problem.

"We have got people coming to the conference from all walks of life who have anything to do with alcohol and drugs issues," he said.

"The aim is to put together all their ideas, find out where the gaps are and provide a service for the future."