SALE Sharks are to tackle the problem of drugs and smoking in Lancashire secondary schools - thanks to new Lottery funding.

The New Opportunities Fund has awarded £385,000 to the north west’s top Rugby Union club to help develop the confidence and self-esteem of youngsters.

British Lion Jason Robinson will head the ambitious scheme, with other high-profile players like former Scottish captain Bryan Redpath and former St Helens Rugby League star Apollo Perelini.

Robinson, who hasn’t had a drink in a pub since deciding to clean up his life six years ago, and who once worked with Manchester’s homeless, is delighted to be involved.

‘‘We will be given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people,’’ he said, during a break from training for Saturday’s Zurich Premiership game at Bath.

‘‘We won’t just be used as figureheads. We will be hands-on with the youngsters and that’s very important.

‘‘The plan is that we teach them rugby skills but also talk to them about what they are doing with their lives. I hate to see young people smoking or, even worse, getting into the drugs culture. We have to show them that there is another way.’’

Wayne Morris, head of Sale Sharks’ community development programme, said: ‘‘This is a ground-breaking scheme. Our players will be working alongside the club’s community team so that young people are provided with positive role models.’’

The scheme is one of more than 100 out-of-school projects sharing £15m of awards.

New Opportunities Fund chief executive Stephen Dunmore, Said: ‘‘No one should underestimate the importance of introducing some pleasure, interest and even fun to education.’’

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