A NEW web site for Richmondshire's young people went live yesterday.

The project is led by the district's Community Safety Partnership, and supported by the Government's communities against drugs scheme and Richmondshire District Council.

The Fence has been designed by 20-year-old Ste Mackinlay from Richmond-based firm, Stanwin.

As well as including articles by young people, the site at www.thefence.net offers information and advice on a wide range of issues including housing, health, money, learning and careers.

There are links to other related web sites, a forum for comments and a leisure guide.

Community safety officer Lynda MacDougall said: "It has taken six months for the project to reach this stage and the partnership is delighted with the finished result.

"A lot of hard work has gone into the web site and we hope young people will find it useful, accessible and fun to use."

An official launch is planned for April.