PROJECT HOPES TO TAKE NO PRISONERS

A scheme intended to show children the harsh realities of drugs and prison
is to expand.

Wellingborough prison and Northamptonshire police want to reach youngsters
who have not yet seen the inmates' presentations on life in jail.

Posters will be put up in police stations to invite youths who have had a
brush with the law to see what could be in store for them if their illegal
behaviour continues.

The project, called Drugs And Crime Mean Doing Time, has seen about 9,000
children from across Britain visiting Wellingborough prison since its
launch in July, 2000.

A visit includes a tour of the prison plus a viewing of weapons found there
and photographs of the injuries caused by them.

Jason Keeling, 31, who is serving time for street robbery " carried out to
fuel his crack cocaine habit " is one of the inmates who gives talks on
his situation.

Plays are also put on by 25 prisoners to portray how easy it is to get
involved in crime.

PC John Pearce, youth and schools liaison officer for Wellingborough,
Rushden and the surrounding area, said: "We are asking parents if your son
or daughter is showing signs of drugs or alcohol misuse, signs of criminal
behaviour or any behaviour which is concerning you, they may benefit from a
visit to Wellingborough prison."

Project co-ordinator Glen Banks said: "If we stop just one youngster from
getting involved in drugs and crime and ending up in jail through this
project it will have been a success.

"The pupils who have visited so far have got a lot out of it. It's not just
a short, sharp shock, but reality."

For more details call PC Pearce on 01933 304351 or Mr Banks on 01933 224151.