PLANS to cut youth offending in two deprived former mining communities was unveiled this week.

The scheme by Youth Inclusion Programme workers will list 50 youngsters, aged ten-15, who are most at risk of offending in Catchgate and Annfield Plain, near Stanley.

It aims to cut arrest rates in the target group by 60 per cent, reduce recorded crime by 30pc and achieve at least a third reduction in truancy and school exclusions.

Susan Butler, project co-ordinator, said: "The aim of the project is to make sure they are included in mainstream activities, with our support to help them overcome a variety of social problems.

"This is a preventative programme and does not mean that the children who work with us are offenders. Those classified as at risk can simply be someone who just likes hanging around on street corners."

From its base in Greencroft School, Annfield Plain, the team will run a range of activities to keep youngsters away from crime.

The activities will be available to all children aged ten-16 in Catchgate and Annfield Plain.

"It is for all, but we will work on a one-to-one basis with the 50 in our target group," said Ms Butler.

The project is funded by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund.

Youngsters will be referred to the programme by a multi-agency steering group, including representatives from the police, social services, schools and education welfare.

"Once we have identified the 50, we will try to engage with them," said Mrs Butler.

"But the programme is voluntary, nobody is forced to come. But it is innovative and exciting and hopefully young people will want to take part."

The team launched the project on Wednesday and Thursday, when pupils from Greencroft and its feeder junior schools of Annfield Plain and Catchgate took part in a series of taster sessions.

This included a course in Brazilian football skills, street dancing with music from a live DJ, indoor rock climbing, nail art, graffiti writing, beauty therapy and basketball.