AN Atherton mum's poem is being used to warn schoolchildren not to 'dabble with death'.

Drugs awareness is part of the national curriculum in schools.

And Jane Woods' verses about the misery drugs like Ecstasy can cause is being used as a focus for discussion at the town's Hesketh Fletcher High.

"I have two small boys and sometimes wonder what the future holds for children growing up in today's society," says Jane.

"If, by reading my poem, some children may stop and think of their actions before anyone or they themselves get hurt, then I will be happy."

Hesketh Fletcher, in line with many other schools, has appointed a drugs link officer to co-ordinate the school's approach to educating pupils to the dangers of illicit drug use.

Head Don Vickers said: "Drugs awareness is part of the Year 8 curriculum and the poem has been passed on to our drugs link officer."

Jane's poem says:

Ecstasy used to mean happiness and Joy

Now it means Death

This isn't a toy.

Look what it's doing

Look what it did,

It's hurting our families

It's killing our kids

Next time you're tempted to give it a try

Think what may happen

You could even die

Then what of your parents, families and friends

How would they feel

If your life came to an end

If ever you're asked "Go on, give it a go"

Don't think of an answer

It's easy, say No!

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