tougher than crack

The government talks a lot about addiction to crack cocaine and heroin - but I have never seen anyone write about - the addictive substances - known by their street name - 'Bassetts Liquorice Allsorts'. Pushed by a gang - headed by a master criminal Bertie - these innocent packages - of what look like - ordinary bag of sweets - are highly addictive - and once a bag is open - there is no stopping an 'Allsort' binge - until the bag is empty.

These substances are seen in many forms - such as 'coconut' yellows - white and brown 'slices' - blue nodules - and sometimes the 'little blue man'. Each one looking totally innocent. However once in the mouth - softly sucked - there is an urge to get the next one - and the next one - and the next one.

These 'Allsorts' are sold through a network of dealers - fronting what look like legitimate businesses - however for the addict they are easy to spot - and - there is a growing attempt to expand the number of addicts - by placing packets - near checkouts - and - special offers - such as the notorious 'two for one' offer.

Does the Priory have a special 'Allsort' dry out section - no! Does the Health Service provide any get off Bassett support schemes - No! Can my doctor write a prescription for 'Dolly Mixtures' to get me down gently - well - No! So I am a confirmed addict - and unlikely ever to get off.