Youngsters whose lives are blighted by drink and drugs now have a new shoulder to lean on after Blackpool Council launched their latest support service.

The Hub advice centre, based at Prudential House, Topping Street, Blackpool, was launched by the council in association with the multi-agency Blackpool Community Safety and Drugs Partnership, to coincide with the national Tackling Drug Awareness Day on Tuesday.

A team of Hub practioners will be on-hand to provide professional help for youngsters and their families on a variety of substance abuse issues such as alcohol abuse, smoking and illegal drug taking.

It is hoped the initiative will help drive down the number of young people, aged 18 or under, misusing substances, especially alcohol one of the nine priorities identified by the council's Children's Plan for Blackpool.

Paolo Pertica, Blackpool's Drug Tzar' and head of the resort's community safety and drugs partnership scheme, said: "We hope that this latest development will give youngsters one of the best opportunities available to help them kick their addiction for good, and get their lives back on track."

Vice-chairman of the scheme, Councillor Sue Wright, added: "Despite the stereotypes of a typical user there are many people of all ages, sexes and backgrounds that find themselves embroiled in the slippery slope of substance misuse.

"This can rob them of their job, personality, self-esteem and in severe cases their life.

"Quite often people reach a turning point when they realise they need professional treatment for their drug addiction.

"Thanks to the efforts of the council, the Primary Care Trust, the police and other key agencies, quality support is available and people are accessing it."