A COMMUNITY project is leading the way in trying to fill a skills shortage in the outdoor leisure industry.

The West View Project, in Hartlepool, is working with Jobcentre Plus and Hartlepool Borough Council to help unemployed young people become qualified adventure leaders.

Organisers set up an Adventure Traineeship, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions' Deprived Areas Fund (Daf), to help fill the positions.

The scheme provides intensive support for small groups of out-of-work youngsters, most of whom were low academic achievers.

They were in paid employment with the project while they gained a range of professional qualifications and experience to help them compete for jobs.

The scheme has been hailed a resounding success by the first six young people to have taken part.

One has chosen to enter further education and the others have been offered jobs, which include a kayak instructor, a sailing coach abroad and a children's activity worker.

Daniel Bebb, who is now employed by outdoor activity organisation PGL, said: "I was happy signing on the dole before, and didn't think there was a job out there for me.

"I'm delighted I can now get paid for doing something I love, and have done as a hobby for a long time."

Ashleigh Mandry, who is working as a children's activity worker, said: "I love the teambuilding and working with the children, so landing a job as a children's activities leader is perfect for me.

"I would never have got the job without the experience I gained at West View."

Matthew Blanchard, training manager for the project, said: "The Government has said that all children and young people should be able to access outdoor pursuits, but the industry can only grow if suitably qualified and skilled staff are available to support it."

For more information on the training, call Mr Blanchard on 01429-272699.