CLUBS, schools and youth organisations are being urged not to miss out on grants of up to £10,000.

The money has been made available by the Make Space Campaign, which aims to provide facilities and activities for teenagers across the country.

The Make Space Development Fund, set up by the Nestle Trust, is in its third year of providing money to youth groups as part of its aim to create a network of 3,000 clubs for young people by 2015.

Easington MP John Cummings said: "Now is a real opportunity to provide new support for our young people.''

Clubs, schools and youth organisations are invited to apply for grants which help them improve their facilities or extend their services.

Grants can be used for anything from buying equipment to carrying out renovations or employing staff.

Applications will be accepted between now and April 8, with decisions being made later in the spring.

Mr Cummings said: "The Make Space campaign offers a positive and practical response to the problems of teenage boredom and disengagement.

"Based on consistent research about what teenagers themselves actually want, Make Space supports innovative and local solutions with young people firmly at the centre.''

He said the grants could make a real difference to young people, parents and everyone in the east Durham area.

"I urge local clubs, schools and youth organisations to take advantage of this great opportunity to apply for funds and I greatly look forward to working alongside them to set up Make Space clubs in Easington."

For more information about the campaign or how to apply for a grant, telephone (0207) 5226960 or visit www.makespace.org.uk