A DRUGS information website, designed to provide support for both health care professionals and users was launched by Watford football player, Tommy Smith.

The site is the result of a partnership between local agencies forming the North West Hertfordshire Drug and Alcohol Reference group (Darg), including St Albans District Council, St Albans and Harpenden Primary Care Trust, Hertfordshire Constabulary and Druglink.

Professionals in the North West Herts area will be able to easily access information about local services and the support available, while young people and those concerned about their welfare, will find basic advice about substance abuse and advice on where to go for help.

St Albans district councillor, Robert Donald, portfolio holder for environment and health, said: "This facility will be a great help to hard pressed medical professionals who need to find out quickly what can be provided locally for their patients who suffer from substance abuse.

"It will also be a much needed additional resource for drug users to access easily when they actually want help.

"Often a drug user, especially a young person, may want to kick the habit but not know where to go to get confidential help. They can get information and counselling instantly at whatever time of the day or night.

"I congratulate all those involved in providing the web site and hope it will be the means of helping many current substance abusers to conquer their dependency and stay drug free."