A GROUP of teenagers has organised a series of events aimed at keeping younger children entertained thanks to a £15,000 grant.

The 19-strong group of 13 to 15 year-olds from the Durham villages of Kelloe and Quarrington Hill, which have few leisure facilities and youth provisions, was recently awarded the grant by the Prince's Trust Millennium Award Fund.

It has since set up the Rural Research group. The group plans to use the money to generate ideas and activities to engage youngsters and provide them with something more constructive to do with their time than hanging around on street corners.

Their first three events, taking place at Kelloe Primary School, will be a Halloween art and craft night, on October 15, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm; a fun sports day, on October 19, from 10am to 3pm; and an art and craft night for older children, on October 22, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

The group is being supported by Durham County Council's mid-Durham projects team.

Youth worker Keely Fingleton said: "These young people are really dedicated. Since they approached us, they have worked very hard researching their community, applying for the grant and planning what kinds of skills and activities they want to learn and pass on to others.

"These are the first of a number of projects planned.

"I hope as many children as possible join in to make them a huge community success."

The events are free and parents can register their children for them by returning consent forms being distributed by the school.