SPORTING stars from across East Lancashire have joined the fight against drug addiction and dealers by pledging their support for our campaign.

Players from Blackburn Rovers and Burnley FC, who are idolised by thousands of the young people who are most at risk from the evils of heroin and other drugs, have given their full backing to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Drive Out Drugs initiative.

And former Superbike World Champion Carl Fogarty and Burnley bike ace Neil Hodgson have also urged people to help beat the area's drugs problems.

Our two telephone lines, set up in conjunction with the police and health experts, offer residents the chance to pass on information about drug dealers as well as offering help and support for drug addicts and their families.

Rovers defender Colin Hendry said: "I fully support the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's campaign against drugs and would strongly advise anybody who is even thinking about taking drugs - don't!" Burnley midfielder David Eyres said: "As a parent I am aware of the need to educate our children about the dangers of drugs.

"But if the whole community pulls together I am sure we can defeat the dealers and help people overcome their addictions."

Blackburn's Superbike ace Carl Fogarty stressed: "For anybody that wants to get on in sport, drugs are a complete non-starter.

"They mess up people's lives and everyone has a duty to help get them off our streets."

Neil Hodgson, Carl's friend and rival in the Superbike World Championship added: "In motorbike racing, as in life, you need to give 100 per cent if you want to be successful.

"Taking drugs affects your brain and doesn't give you a chance to make anything of your life."

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