little about the darker side of life when teenagers from an anti-drug youth scheme talked to them about drugs.

Three teenagers from Youth-to-Youth, a group which teaches young people how to have fun without drugs, tried to bring home the message to the kids: "Just say no.'' The idea came from Rainbow guide, Mrs. Debbie Smith, who organises activities for the group of girls, keen to be Brownies but still too young.

"I feel it is never too young to learn about drugs,'' she said. "I thought it was really important and am very pleased with what they presented to the children. They were very receptive.'' Youth-to-Youth advisor, Mrs. Judith Burgess told the kids never to take anything from strangers.

"The only drugs you should take are what the doctor prescribed from people you trust,'' she told them.

Ms Hope Smith, Ms Janita Woolridge, 14, and Mr. Harry Hunter, 17, explained how they have fun drug-free through sports and meeting drug-free friends through Youth-to-Youth.

The six-year-olds listened intently and appeared to relish activities such as hugging games and shouting matches to break up the talk.

But their concept of drugs was a little fuzzy although not far off the facts.

One admitted her mother was on drugs because she smoked. Another announced that drugs give you a blood disease.

But all came away with a comic book, pencil and the message that "drugs are not good.''