EMPLOYEES from transport services organisation Arriva have been thanked for their help in a major project in the North-East.

The 18 members of staff have been presented with award by group chief executive Bob Davies following their involvement in a year-long mentoring scheme.

Organised by Business in the Community, the Roots and Wings scheme involves 18 youngsters from Sunderland's Sandhill View school, who regularly meet up with an Arriva mentor.

The aim of the project is to help pupils increase their confidence and communicative skills with adults and to gain a better understanding of life after school.