Houghton and Sunderland South MP, Bridget Phillipson has praised the work of local community worker and Silksworth Councillor Phil Tye and his team at the Youth Almighty project after a BBC3 television documentary highlighted their work tackling underage drinking in Sunderland.

The north east has the country’s highest percentage of 11 to 15 year olds drinking. Youth Almighty works with young people to encourage them to give up alcohol and take part in the activities of the youth centre based in Silksworth.

Commenting in support of the work of Youth Almighty, Bridget Phillipson MP said:

“Phil and his team at Youth Almighty are amazing. They work on the frontline at evenings and weekends giving support and opportunities to young people in our area.

“Sunderland City Council has been granted greater power to act on public health issues and I will be working with them over the coming months to raise awareness and take action.”

Photo credit: Northern Echo