A NEW scheme giving young people a set of wheels with which to reach or find work was launched on Tuesday.

Wheels 2 Work, involving the lease of mopeds where no alternative or public transport exists in rural Hambleton and Richmondshire, aims to give those aged 16-25 the same access to services as those living in towns.

The project, which received financial backing from the two district councils, the Countryside Agency and the Learning and Skills Council in North Yorkshire, was set up along the lines of a similar scheme operating in north Herefordshire and south Shropshire.

Wheels 2 Work is the latest initiative from the Hambleton and Richmondshire rural transport partnership, set up 18 months ago to try to ensure that young people can continue to live in rural areas.

The project will see 12 mopeds available on lease to youngsters who are unable to find work or related training because of lack of transport.

The partnership obtained £18,000 to buy the 50cc mopeds from a Bedale dealer, G Dawkins and Son, at £1,500 each, along with safety helmets and suitable clothing. All the young people taking part will have to pass a basic motorcycle proficiency course funded by the scheme.

The main purpose of the 30mph machines is to reach employment or training or to look for work, but they can also be used for reasonable social purposes. Those taking part in the scheme will be responsible for upkeep and security of the mopeds, which can be taken away if abused.

Young people will be referred to the scheme by such agencies as the employment service, training organisations, job clubs or the YMCA, and their needs will be assessed in an interview with a partnership officer.

Mr Andrew Johnston, Hambleton and Richmondshire rural transport co-ordinator, said: "The project will give youngsters the confidence to be able to look for jobs outside their immediate neighbourhood.

"And it will bolster the sustainability of villages by reducing the pressure on young people to move away to find jobs. Mobility opens up employment and training opportunities regardless of where you live."

The partnership produced five case studies from Herefordshire and Shropshire which, it said, showed the clear benefits of Wheels 2 Work.

The new Hambleton and Richmondshire initiative will run alongside the Wheels 4 All minibus brokerage scheme to be launched this summer to give current and potential community transport users an accessible services. Groups will be able to obtain minibus transport through the partnership.

The partnership also gives grants under the Get Up and Go banner to transport initiatives from local groups. A £10,000 pot has been earmarked this year; more information is available on 01609 761206.