AN advice and guidance service has been praised for helping to cut unemployment among young people.

The Connexions Service in North Yorkshire has helped reduce the number of young people not in education, training or employment by 23 per cent from 2003.

The figure puts the county organisation in the top 12 nationally.

Margaret Hodge, Government Minister for Children, praised Connexions North Yorkshire.

She said: "It is vital that young people get the support and advice that they need at what is a crucial life stage.

"That's why I'm pleased Connexions is playing its part by meeting the target to reduce the proportion of young people not in education, employment or training."

Connexions was set up four years ago to offer guidance and support to all 13- to 19-year-olds.