A HOUSING landlord has won an award for its work in keeping youngsters out of trouble.

Erimus Housing, Middlesbrough's largest social landlord, teaches primary school children about how to avoid the pitfalls of youth crime and anti-social behaviour through role playing, poetry, games and art. The landlord also finds work placements and runs holiday clubs.

Its efforts have won Erimus the Merrill Lynch Raising Achievement in Young People Award in the Business in the Community's Big Tick Awards for Excellence 2007.

Brenda Kirby, director of corporate services for Erimus, said: "We are thrilled to receive this award, which shows just how committed we are to young people, who are the future of our area."