TEENAGERS can sign up for 100 places left on a 21st Century version of National Service.

Teesside is one of 12 pilot areas across the country, and the only one in the region, chosen to launch the National Citizen Service (NCS).

Already, 900 16-year-olds living in living in Hartlepool, Stockton, Redcar and Cleveland and Middlesbrough have volunteered for the non-military placement, which includes time spent living away from home.

The voluntary programme also combines three weeks of full-time activities and a further 30 hours on a part-time basis over a number of weeks.

It includes fun and challenging activities and a self designed social action project.

National Citizen Service is a Big Society initiative, supporting young people from all backgrounds to work together, take on new challenges and make a difference. .

Anyone wanting more information can call Paula Davidson on 0845-271-3883 or visit direct.gov.uk/nationalcitizenservice or the NCS Facebook page. Applications can also be obtained from Safe in Tees Valley on 0845-271-3883.