MORE than nine out of ten North-East youngsters want to look back on their lives with pride.

A new survey, commissioned by the Army, has examined the attitudes of 16 to 24 year-olds across the country.

It showed that 92 per cent want to be proud of what they have done. But an alarming 78 per cent said their lives were routine.

The study also showed that young men were unpredictably traditional in their values and beliefs.

More than half of those questioned said protecting the family was the most important thing about being a man. The second answer was self-respect.

The study also revealed today's youths were a generation of lost boys.

They wanted to succeed in their career and life, but felt disillusioned.

The commander for regional recruiting, Lieutenant Colonel John May, said: "Society is misjudging our young men.

"There is a generation out there with huge potential - all they need is someone to unlock it.

"They have more choice now than ever, but without the guidance, care and structure they need to make the most of this they find themselves increasingly lost."