FORMER drugs tsar Keith Hellawell is looking ahead to a successful season after accepting the role as the president of York Wasps.

As reported late yesterday, Hellawell, who is now the International Advisor on Drug Issues, was persuaded to take up the position by close friend and Wasps director Rod Lowery.

The pair were on holiday in the south of France with their families, when Lowery first put the idea forward to Hellawell to replace Denzil Webster, after the club decided not to renew his tenure.

Hellawell, who is a former Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police, initially deferred any decision on taking up the post, but he finally accepted it late on Tuesday night.

And, as a devoted rugby league fan, Hellawell could not be happier about the role.

"Rugby league and I have had a common interest - we were born in the same place - Huddersfield," he said. "I have very fond memories of my schoolboy days, when I played for Dewsbury Juniors as we competed right up to the Yorkshire Cup.

"In more recent years I have been a passionate supporter, and despite work commitments, I have never missed the Challenge Cup Final or, in more recent times, the Super League Grand Final.

"I am delighted to accept the position of president of York Wasps, and look forward to a highly-successful future."

Hellawell was appointed by Prime Minister Tony Blair to head up the UK's fight against drugs in 1997 and in 1998 he was voted Communicator of the Year for his strong dynamic style.

But the Wasps will be looking to Hellawell's knowledge of the game, as well as the friendships he has forged with those at Rugby League Headquarters, to help them in the future.

Updated: 09:14 Thursday, October 11, 2001