EXTRA youth provisions are being offered in Shildon after requests from young people in the town.

The opening hours at Shildon Youth Club, based at Shildon People’s Centre, have been extended from four to five evenings a week, and Sunday afternoons.

The move follows requests from youngsters for more social activities and things to do on evenings and weekends.

Youth club members are encouraged to get involved with decision making and fundraising to help run the group, and secured the extended opening hours with funding from Durham County Council.

The authority’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People's Services, Coun Claire Vasey, said: "I'm delighted that we have been able to develop and expand the youth club in response to what the young people in Shildon want."

The youth club, which initially opened for two nights a week, also offers youngsters advice on sexual health issues, alcohol and drug abuse, and healthy eating.

Over the last year, youth workers at the centre have worked with 261 young people.