A SCOOTER scheme to help people in rural areas get to work is launching an initiative to disseminate information about its services.

The Wheels to Work moped loan scheme has been helping young people living in parts of Teesdale with poor transport links to travel to jobs in towns and villages around County Durham for several years.

The service, which is funded by Groundwork West Durham, the Countryside Agency and Connexions, has helped to provide access to employment, college courses and training for dozens of young people.

The scheme has now built up its fleet of mopeds to 12, and will be holding its annual launch at the Learning Shop, in Barnard Castle Market Place, where the Wheels to Work initiative is based, next Tuesday.

At the event, young people in Teesdale who are struggling to get to and from work or college can find out how to registering with the scheme and whether they are eligible for support.

Candidates will have to pass a training course before they can use the mopeds, which will be provided as part of the scheme.

Successful candidates will be asked to contribute £2.50 each week for tyre wear, but will receive a small fuel allowance and protective clothing.

Margaret Willey, Wheels to Work co-ordinator, said: "Lack of transport is a major barrier to people living in rural areas in accessing work, education and training opportunities.

"Dispersed population and low demand can often result in rural areas being served by infrequent or no public transport at all.

"Young people, in particular, face a situation where without a job they cannot afford to buy a car or motor-cycle of their own, and without a vehicle they cannot travel to work or take part in a training course."