NORTH-East school leavers will be able to benefit from a £2.6m fund to help them with education and jobs.

The cash, provided by the New Opportunities Fund, will help youngsters make decisions about their future.

Summer activity centres to help bridge the gap between school and work will also be provided.

County Durham, Tyne and Wear and Northumberland are all set to benefit.

The money will support programmes of activity offered by partnerships in each area and will include youth services, careers, social services, the police, outdoor activity centres and local voluntary groups.

Tyne and Wear has been awarded £1m for its Summer Meltdown programme.

Colin Petch, programme organiser, said: "We are delighted to be given this funding, which enables us to develop our ongoing work with local young people.

"The schemes are designed to build both personal and practical skills among young people who are unsure about their future decision."

Tees Valley has been granted £740,000 to provide summer activities, and more than £580,000 has been awarded to County Durham and Darlington Careers Service to help school leavers with personal development. In Northumberland, £270,000 will help more than 150 people develop skills and confidence.