YOUNG people and community groups across County Durham are being encouraged to get involved in a scheme which promotes good citizenship.

The aim of Millennium Volunteers is to do 200 hours of voluntary work in a year as a group. It is supported by charitable cash from the Key Fund.

Durham County Council's education in the community initiative is a supporter of the project.

It is organising a meeting at Chester-le-Street Youth Centre, from 6.30pm to 9.30pm on Tuesday, with guest speaker Michael Evans, from the Key Fund.

Alan Maxwell, senior worker at the centre, said: "This is a tremendous scheme for 16 to 24-years-olds.

"Michael will explain how the scheme works, how it can benefit young people, community organisations and the wider community."

Young people from Pelton Fell have been involved with the volunteers project for a year and have organised activities for other youngsters.

Claire Barrett, one of the volunteers, said: "I have done voluntary work two nights per week at the youth centre, including detached work on the streets with qualified youth workers.

"I get to organise a lot of activities and trips and we fully involve ourselves in all aspects."

Claire and her fellow volunteers have also organised trips to health and fitness centres and are planning a summer programme of outdoor activities, including abseiling and rock climbing.

Mr Maxwell said: "I have seen a big increase in the self-confidence of the young people involved in this project.

"They used to be so shy, but now they are great at organising activities with the younger people at the centre and its satellite projects."