DISADVANTAGED children are aiming for a brighter future after NatWest Bank gave them £310,000.

The youngsters, from the Fairbridge project, Newcastle, have been learning skills to give them a fresh start in life.

They put their culinary skills to the test on monday when they cooked lunch this week for NatWest's area manager, Tony Lobban.

The children at Fairbridge, which helps under-privileged youngsters across Tyne and Wear, are taking part in the NatWest-sponsored Clued Up scheme.

They are taking part in a living skills course, which covers drugs' awareness, food and cookery, sexual health, personal hygiene and financial management.

The course is being led by Chris Toop, a former client of Fairbridge, who is now a member of staff.

He said: "As a former client of Fairbridge, I have first-hand experience of the huge difference that Fairbridge can make to vulnerable young people who are in need of direction and guidance to keep them on the right track.

"These courses are an invaluable resource and will assist considerably in helping our clients develop the confidence, motivation and skills they need to get more out of life."

Mr Lobban said: "I am delighted that our support of Fairbridge has made this initiative possible.