Stars lend support to project tackling homophobic bullying

Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies is lending his support to "Sticks and Stones", a new project set up by The Rural Media Company. Young gay, lesbian and bi-sexual people (aged 16-25) are being asked to talk about their own experiences of life in rural areas and get involved in making a series of short films on tackling homophobic bullying.

The writer is quoted on the website for the project saying "The most extraordinary thing to happen over the past 10 years is the existence of the gay teenager. When I was at school at a big comprehensive there was no one in the world like you. There was no one on television, there weren't even documentaries."

He went on to say "The internet has been the most phenomenal thing for young gay people and more empowering and liberating than any law. You used to feel completely alone, and now you can go online and meet thousands of people like yourself."

Producer David Furnish, Female musician Mz Fontaine and Big Brother star Josh Rafter are also supporting the project. "I am delighted to be helping the Sticks and Stones project," says Josh. "It was incredible the number of letters I received after Big Brother from young gay people who felt isolated and in a lot of cases bullied and harassed. Many were terrified to openly admit they were gay."

The Sticks and Stones website and online forum can be found at www.ruralmedia.co.uk/sticks. Your anonymity is assured if you are not "out". Please call Steven Davies for further information 01432 344039 or email stevend@ruralmedia.co.uk

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