AN information book published by young people for young people has been banned by three high schools.

Bury schools, Derby High and St Gabriel's RC High as well as St Monica's RC High in Prestwich, have refused to stock and distribute What Now 1999.

The heads of the three schools refused to comment on their decision to censor the book, but youth worker Gary May said he understood the ban was implemented because the volume deals with sex and contraception.

The schools' decisions have angered Louise Selisny, co-chairman of Bury's youth issues sub-committee, who accused them of "burying their heads in the sand".

"Their pupils are really missing out on reading a great book which helps them understand and deal with issues that affect them," said Louise, a sixth form student at Bury Grammar School.

What Now is aimed at 15 and 16-year-olds and is published by Lancashire County Council in conjunction with Bury Council. The fourth edition of the book was published this week. Councillor David Neath, Bury's youth spokesman, said: "What Now 1999 is designed to give them useful information at their fingertips which they can take advantage of. It is a book which we believe could come in useful on numerous occasions."

The book deals with everything from education to employment and training, the environment, Europe, family and relations, health, housing, justice and a many more issues.

The booklet complements the regional What Now? help-line on freephone 0800 511111.

Louise added: "It is a great book. I have tried hard to get all schools to accept the book - but I have been told it is up to the schools and parents, which is just not on.

"All young people have to deal with a whole variety of issues - and this book is designed to help them to do just that. It is not fair to ban the book."

She urged all teenagers to get hold of a copy of the book from the library, youth centres or from Athenaeum House in Market Street, Bury.

Headteachers Mr Gerald Wilson of Derby High School, Mr Paul Hopkins of St Gabriel's RC High School, and Mr Frank McCarron of St Monica's RC High School all declined to comment.

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