YOUNG people are facing the prospect of losing a vital support service because funding will soon run out.

The Ryedale Detached Youth Project was set up with the aid of Lottery cash three years ago to keep teenagers off the streets.

The work, which includes providing education on drugs and sexual health problems, won praise from community police officers in Ryedale.

But organisers say the scheme is now under threat, with workers likely to be lost - and it is even possible that the project could close down altogether.

Pickering town councillor Peter Gorill said: "The project was lucky enough to receive a grant from the Lottery three years ago, which enabled it to be set up.

"But when this funding runs out next year there will be a sudden drop in income which could mean losing workers."

The project, which has set up youth clubs in Malton, Norton and Pickering, costs about £30,000 a year to run. Town councils throughout Ryedale will now be approached about sharing the cost.