A SUCCESSFUL youth volunteer scheme has been extended into County Durham.

Chester-le-Street and District CVS and Volunteer Bureau have been invited by the Government to extend the Millennium Volunteers programme which has proved a hit with youngsters in Sunderland.

Designed to encourage young people to volunteer for something they already care about, participants are expected to carry out 200 hours of voluntary activity.

When they complete their action plan they will each receive a Millennium Volunteers Award for Excellence signed by the new Education Minister, Estelle Morris.

Youngsters in Sunderland have already taken part in all-expenses paid exchange visits to Rio De Janeiro in Brazil, helping to build a five-a-side football pitch.

The Millennium Volunteers programme in County Durham starts on August 1 and more information is available from Mel at the Chester-le-Street Volunteer Centre on 0191-389 1960.

There will be an awareness raising event on Friday, July 6. Call Mel or Brian on 0191-551 8241, to book a place.