Students from Ely have been given an insight into the dangers of drink and drugs at a safety event.

Ely Standard: Students from Ely Sixth Form College have been given an insight into the dangers of drink and drugs at a recent safety event.Students from Ely Sixth Form College have been given an insight into the dangers of drink and drugs at a recent safety event. (Image: Archant)

More than 100 young people attended the talk at Ely Sixth Form College, where they were given a thought provoking course of alcohol and drug awareness advice, as well as road safety information.

Students witnessed first-hand the effects of using drugs by seeing the damage of a crashed car and by recreating the journey of a drug-driver.

Graham Nolan, head of neighbourhood partnerships, said: “After local discussion around the risks and pressures faced by young people we were keen to support the partnership in holding a specific event in conjunction with the college.

“Hopefully, by raising awareness we will reduce choices of young people and their communities being negatively impacted by drugs, drink and crime.”

Sue Loaker, crime reduction officer from East Cambridgeshire Police, added: “It is always our aim, and especially at this time of year to deliver a firm message about the effects and consequences of drug and drink driving, as well as highlighting personal safety around the party season.

“The students were very receptive to talks given by Police, East Cambridgeshire District Council, Inclusion and the Fire Service. We will continue dedicated work with young people in an effort to reduce accidents and deaths on our roads.”

Watch commander, Mark Coupar from Ely Fire Station, said: “We want to reduce the number of young people killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions and we hope events like these are helping to do that.

“Getting young people involved in interactive sessions about driver safety and distractions on the road will hopefully power home the message of how to stay safe on Cambridgeshire’s roads.”

Organised by East Cambridgeshire Community Partnership the event was funded by Sanctuary Housing, Cambridgeshire Constabulary and East Cambridgeshire District Council.