YOUNGSTERS will be encouraged to stub out cannabis and get active over the summer holidays at an event being staged in Ipswich tomorrow.

YOUNGSTERS will be encouraged to stub out cannabis and get active over the summer holidays at an event being staged in Ipswich tomorrow .

Health Jam 2007, organised by Ipswich Borough Council will promote activities including sports, music, information, advice and healthy eating and living as alternative choices to smoking cannabis.

The event will take place on the Cornhill from 10am to 2pm.

It follows research on Ipswich's most vulnerable young people, which suggested that the majority were using large amounts of cannabis, on a frequent basis.

Many of these reported feeling bored and depressed, with a poor diet and a lack of participation in sports.

At least 12 different groups and agencies will be taking part in the in the event each with their own stall on the market place, while live music will be performed.

Health and fitness centres will be promoting sporting activities, and fitter lifestyles, while the Suffolk Young People's Health Project (4YP) will be highlighting the services and opportunities available for young people.

Those wishing to know more about the consequences of cannabis use, or wanting to investigate sources of help will be able to do so via Ipswich's Iceni drug service, and the Drug and Alcohol Public Educator.

Tibbs Pinter, the council's substance misuse officer and event organiser said: “Our aim with the Health Jam is to encourage and celebrate principles of healthy living in order to promote alternative choices to smoking cannabis.

“We are primarily concerned about those who are using large amounts on a frequent basis, but there will be advice and information available for all provided by a wide range of professionals.”

Has cannabis affected your life? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk