TEENAGERS who have no plans for the future, are being invited to get away from it all to build their confidence.

Darlington Borough Council is running a Government- funded summer scheme for youngsters who have just left school, but are undecided on their future.

Participants go to the Langdon Beck youth hostel, in Forest-in-Teesdale, for a residential course, including outdoor pursuits and team work.

Once the young people return home, a team from Darlington Borough Council will work with them to ensure their newly-developed skills can help them get a job, or move to higher education.

A council spokeswoman said: "The scheme is aimed at young people who have no direction in their life, come September."

One of the five-day courses has already taken place and others are planned, including one starting on Monday.

The courses are free and are available to any 2001 school leavers.

The spokeswoman said: "We want to get as many young people as possible together to build confidence and make friends."

The remaining courses are from Monday to Friday; August 27 to 31; and September 10 to 14.

Further details are available from Vikki Newman on (01325) 388831 or (01325) 388845.

Those interested in the course starting next week can attend a meeting at the Gladstone Street activity centre in Darlington, from 3pm, today.