ROYSTON youngsters have been given new toothbrushes to highlight the importance of oral hygiene.
It comes after a study by Healthwatch Barnsley, carried out last year, saw pupils across the town take part in a survey about how often they brushed their teeth.
Alarming figures revealed more than 600 Barnsley children are admitted to hospital every year for the removal of decayed teeth, which prompted the Royston Ward Alliance to contact Ad Astra, an organisation which aims to improve youngsters’ lifestyles.
Oral hygiene classes were put on at St John’s Primary on Wednesday, before children were given free toothbrushes.
Michelle Cooper, from Ad Astra, said: “We have been shocked at how many kids share toothbrushes with their siblings and it’s clear intervention is needed as it’s a major problem across the town.
“We put on classes in the morning and afternoon at St John’s and plan to do more in the area.”
