A Mid-Ulster based anti drugs group is offering budding young photographers a chance to showcase their skills this summer.

Teenagers Involved in Protecting Selves Against Alcohol (TIPSA) is running a photography competition based on the theme “Alternative Highs”.

Participants are asked to capture in pictorial form what the phrase means to them, and to encourage others to think about ways that individuals can get a buzz without resorting to chemical means.

The overall winner will receive an iPod Nano with other recommended entries being exhibited publicly in events to be held in Cookstown and Magherafelt.

There is also the possibility of some photos also being chosen for inclusion in the ever popular TIPSA calendar that is given away before Christmas to a wide range of people and places.

Martin McCann, young people’s project co-ordinator for TIPSA said: “We wanted to provide an opportunity for young people to express themselves and feel part of something.

“While local sports and youth organisations do a good job providing services for many young people over July and August, there are others who simply not into sport or whatever, and this is a way to reflect that and ensure they feel included in things as well”

His colleague Eugene O’Goan, added: “Feeling part of something is a strong protective factor when it comes to preventing alcohol and other drug misuse.

“As well as young people getting involved with this competition, they can also help highlight the fact that not all highs need to be chemically induced”

The competition is open to young people aged 18 and under who reside in the Cookstown and Magherafelt council areas and all entries must be accompanied by an entry form.

This and a copy of the rules are available on the Latest News page of the TIPSA website www.tipsa.co.uk or by e-mailing info@cookstownhelp.com.

Entries close at midnight on August  31.