This week’s Gazette highlights the drug deaths that occurred in Renfrewshire last year and it doesn’t make for happy reading.

In total 13 lives were lost and when compared to other areas around the country Renfrewshire was near to the top, having one of the highest number of deaths per 1,000 of population.

Statistics, of course, are cold and only tell half the story. The real tragedy is painfully etched in the faces of those who have lost loved ones, often before their lives have really begun.

That’s why it’s vital to continually remind people of the dangers that drugs, both legal and illegal, present and of course the so-called ‘legal highs’ that are fast becoming as much of a threat.

The bottom line is that when someone obtains drugs on the black market, no matter what you think you’re taking, there can be no certainty because drug dealers don’t follow health and safety guidelines.

The Gazette fully supports every effort that’s made to hammer home that message and we will continue to turn the spotlight on the issue at every opportunity.

Elsewhere, in this week’s paper we report on uplifting events at St James’ Primary where pupils are settling into their all-singing, all-dancing new building.

It’s one of many new schools popping up all over Renfrewshire and beyond and I’m sure I’m not the only one who is a little envious of the youngsters and of course the teachers and school staff who get to make the most of the stunning facilities.

We also tip our hat to Renfrewshire Council’s savings scheme that encourages the new high school intake to learn the value of saving money.

The local authority’s Credit Union initiative iSave looks to be a nailed-on winner and we encourage all youngsters to take advantage of the offer. Who knows, maybe we’ll have a situation where mums and dads throughout Renfrewshire will be going cap in hand to their kids asking them for some extra pocket money.

Editor Graham Mann Email: gmann@cfpress.co.uk Twitter: @GrahamRMann Website: www.the-gazette.co.uk