A CHARITY in north Durham is hosting its 100th Prince’s Trust programme next week.

Consett YMCA has helped about 1,500 young people since starting the scheme 13 years ago and is the second largest provider in the North-East.

The trust is now in its 40th year and the scheme is designed to help unemployed people aged 16 to 25 turn their lives around and get into work.

It is run from eight locations, Consett, Stanley, Winlaton, Fencehouses, Gateshead, Byker, West Denton and Newcastle, and the course includes activities, work experience and CV advice and will give participants a reference.

Delivery partner manager Sarah-Jane Heslop said: “It is a course that packs a lot into the 12 weeks.

“We have had a lot of success stories and they have been amazing. It really does have a big impact on young people.

“The amount of lives we have changed is incredible and it is humbling to be part of that.”

There are still spaces on the next programme, which starts on Tuesday, May 3, and people who take part can get up to £20 a week towards travel costs and earn up to £250 in incentives.

Ms Heslop said: “It is nothing like school or college and is very informal. It is an opportunity not to be missed."

Anyone interested can text JOIN to 07889 624636.