YOUTH clubs and services are to get a makeover in a bid to rejuvenate the lives of youngsters.

Councillors in Stockton hope the next 12 months will see huge changes to after-school clubs and activities.

The changes, brought about following a review of children's services across the borough, could see authority-owned transport used to get young people to events.

Stockton Borough councillor Alex Cunningham, cabinet member for children, education, leisure and culture, said these are positive moves for the younger generation.

"The report by the select committee recognised that there needs to be more publicity to inform kids of activities in their area," he said.

"Our main aims now are to increase the number of events. One idea we are looking at is opening Splash swimming pool for teenagers exclusively on a Friday night.

"We are also looking at utilising school facilities which could include web-based gaming.

"On the other hand, we also want to encourage more exercise. In this area, we are looking at All Saints' School, in Ingleby Barwick, which has some of the best cricket facilities in the North of England."

A report from the select committee for education, leisure and culture states: "It is recommended that all existing youth clubs be brought up to meet the standard of any new youth clubs, wherever possible. The committee supports the youth service aim to provide new youth clubs, but recommends that they are established in a way that incorporates a youth cafe approach, in order to meet the aspirations of young people in the borough."

The report, presented to the council's cabinet meeting last Thursday, also states that planning should be made to utilise council transport during off-peak times to benefit young people.

Councillor Cunningham said that council officials will meet for the first time with the Children's Trust In coming weeks to discuss the future of the youth service across Stockton.

"Over the next 12 months, we will be expanding considerably, but, most importantly, the young people will know about the changes and new services in their area."