POLICE officers have teamed up with a group of organisations to lay on a series of events for bored students during school holidays.

More than 100 young residents from South Bank have signed up to Bobbies Hobbies.

The scheme aims to reduce anti-social behaviour and promote good citizenship by improving communication between young people and the police.

Go-karting, football, ice-skating, swimming and cricket competitions are on offer along with horse riding and surfing. There have also been trips to North-East attractions Flamingo Land and Wet 'n' Wild.

Local beat officers Paul Walker and Andrew Harrison are joining in the fun by taking part in some activities and talking to local residents about issues surrounding their community.

Linda Ackroyd, of South Bank Tomorrow, one of the organisations involved, said: "It is well documented that the area has suffered in the past through anti-social behaviour.

"We are trying to develop an understanding between young people and the police.

"The success of this scheme depends on willing volunteers and goodwill."

One student, Lewis Rawles, said: "I have tried a range of activities and made new friends through Bobbies Hobbies.

"Previously, children have said that there is not enough to do around here - but now they don't have that excuse."

The initiative is the work of South Bank Tomorrow, Kidz Konnekt, BAT, PCT, Jackson Street Youth Club, Coast and Country and the police. It is funded by donations from Guinness Trust, Huntsman, PCT, Sembcorp, Tommy Bosher, Advansa and Uniqema.

South Bank Tomorrow was formed in 2003 as a non-profit organisation to support the work of people and organisations in South Bank. Membership is from agencies, community organisations and local residents.

Ronny Harris, operations director at Coast and Country, said: "Bobbies Hobbies has enabled young South Bank residents to try new activities and socialise more with each other.

"Take-up levels have been excellent and participants have shown that this is a useful way of broadening their social skills and responsibilities."

Activities are Monday to Thursday in Golden Boy Green, from 6pm.