AN initiative which offers opportunities to young people is expanding to cover the whole of Sedgefield borough.

The Millennium Volunteers scheme has been a great success since it was set up in Darlington and Newton Aycliffe in May last year.

It is designed to encourage young people to develop projects and activities based on their interests which benefit the community.

Anyone between the ages of 16 and 24 can volunteer to help others, while developing skills and gaining accreditation.

Rebecca Severi, who became a Millennium Volunteer in Darlington last year, has developed an anti-bullying project.

She has now gained employment as the assistant project worker for Sedgefield Millennium Volunteers.

She said: "I am excited about the prospect of telling more young people about the many benefits Millennium Volunteers can offer them and how it can change your life."

Activities have included working with children and the elderly, disc jockey work in a youth club, involvement in sports or the environment, or raising awareness of alcohol and drug abuse issues.

Joanne Jones, project development worker for the Sedgefield area, said: "I am looking forward to developing the project in the area."

For more information contact 07903 013652.