An initiative has been launched to tackle teenage pregnancy in West Sussex.

More than 184 teenagers aged 17 and under gave birth in the county in 1999 and health experts believe the figure will be even higher this year.

West Sussex Health Authority and West Sussex Social Services have now appointed a dedicated teenage pregnancy co-ordinator to try and halve the number of conceptions by young girls in the county by 2010.

The new co-ordinator, Kevin Grimwade, will also provide support services for young mothers.

More and more children are developing younger and getting into relationships at an earlier age and Mr Grimwade believes ensuring the right information is available is the key.

Mr Grimwade has a background in sexual health promotion, policy development and counselling.

He comes from the West Berkshire Priority Care Services NHS Trust where he managed a sexual health and community drugs service.

His first task in Sussex will be to develop a strategy which will set out plans and action for the next ten years.

He said: "Britain has the highest rates of teenage pregnancies in Europe. Although in West Sussex the overall rate is below the national average, there are pockets where the rates are high or above the national average.

"We need to further develop the range of sex education and social programmes, as well as making our health services more accessible and user-friendly to young people.

"With the right programmes and investment, we can make a difference. I am delighted to have this opportunity to co-ordinate local programmes and policies."