A RAPPER who grew up on a council estate where drugs and knives were commonplace wants to inspire youngsters.

Josh Healey, 19, said he wants his music and lyrics to deter teenagers from carrying weapons and get them off of the streets.

The former Philip Morant pupil was raised around Greenstead and Shrub End areas of Colchester.

He said: "My message to young people is get a hobby, get off the road and do something positive."

Josh, of Egerton Green Road, has released his first video, Hard on the Road, under his rapper name Persuasion.

Full interview in Tuesday's Gazette.