YORK is known for its many attractions and its long history. Sadly, there is another side to the city, a darker aspect a world away from the Gothic marvels of the Minster. For York, in common with cities and towns up and down the country, is a city quietly troubled by drugs.

Yesterday we reported that the price of heroin in York had dropped so much it is now cheaper than 'softer' drugs such as cannabis.

Today we report on an inquest into the death of a heroin addict. The death of Paul Dent is particularly worrying because he died within three days of arriving in York, thanks in part to the easy availability of drugs on the city's streets.

Coroner Donald Coverdale spoke of the dangers of heroin which, as we reported yesterday, is available in the city for as little as £5. He said young people should see Paul Dent's death as a warning about heroin. Referring to yesterday's Evening Press story, Mr Coverdale said the low price and wide availability of heroin was "a very worrying thing".

Paul Dent's father, also called Paul, echoed the coroner's concerns, saying: "Heroin is a terrible thing... It is too cheap and too easy to get hold of."

It is clear that heroin is now a dangerously affordable drug. Unlike the softer cannabis, previously the most widely available recreational drug, it is a hard drug - as addictive as it is easy to buy.

As with any commodity, cheaper heroin is likely to be in greater demand and this is a very worrying thought indeed.

More alarming still is the grim fact that dealers so often try to sell drugs to people at a younger and younger age. All authorities, from the police to headteachers, must now be aware of the increased availability and consequent dangers of heroin.

To some young people, heroin might appear 'cool' yet this drug can only lead to ruination.

Just ask Paul Dent's father.

Updated: 14:04 Friday, August 31, 2001