PROJECT to keep youngsters off the streets in a crime-hit village has paid dividends.

Youth workers spent the autumn organising a series of outings for teenagers in Pont Head, Leadgate, near Consett. Latest police figures show that reports of crime and youth disorder in the area have dropped by more than 40 per cent since the start of the scheme.

The drive, funded by a £1,500 grant from the Scarman Trust, saw around 60 youngsters take part in diversionary activities such as kayaking, canoeing, climbing and educational visits.

They also worked with residents associations in Pont Head and youngsters from the village's Bottom End Detached Group.

Leadgate resident Billy Robson ran the scheme and recently won a Community Champions award for his efforts. "It is all about raising their esteem," he said.

"By getting them involved and giving them something to do, it has proved successful in reducing crime and there is no reason why it should not fall further."

Anita Heskett-Saddington, project co-ordinator for the Scarman Trust, will present the youngsters with certificates marking their part in the project at a ceremony in the YMCA centre in Consett on Monday at 6.30pm.

The project ties in with Mr Robson's daytime job as manager of Consett YMCA, where he is working with the police and Derwentside District Council on delivering similar diversionary schemes throughout the district.

Funded by development agency One NorthEast, the project also encourages residents to get proper training as youth leaders. "This is about getting people involved back in their communities with young people," said Mr Robson.

"Getting people trained means they can take ownership of their own projects in their own communities and gives Derwentside a base of youth leaders for the future to build on."

He hopes to attract more girls into the project in the New Year, when the centre sets up a girls football team.

Sessions start on Friday, January 10, with a session 6-7pm for girls aged nine to 12, followed by 13 to 16-year-olds afterwards, 7-8pm.

Anyone interested should contact the centre on (01207) 502680.