Teenage tearaways are being encouraged to vent their frustration through music as a new programme aimed at stamping out yobbish behaviour is rolled out.

The Bradford scheme, one of 14 being run in areas of "deprivation" across the country, will see young people being given the chance to get involved in making music with oneto-one and group mentoring sessions with peers, musicians and the music industry.

It is the latest Government attempt to crack down on Britain's growing anti-social behaviour crisis.

The programme was unveiled by Ms Jowell and music charity Youth Music and will be run through Youth Action Music Zones which target children and young people who may not otherwise get "high quality opportunities to make music".

It is hoped all young people from different backgrounds will be integrated into the local community.

The Music Mentoring Programme will include tutoring on specific topics relating to making music and progression into the industry.

The launch in London last night showcased the work and achievements of young participants in two Youth Music Action Zones in London.

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Tessa Jowell, said: "Youth Music gives young people the chance to shape and create their own work, and provides them with a platform to share ideas and talent.

"This is why I have asked them to deliver a mentoring programme across 14 areas of England.

"I look forward to seeing, and hearing, the impact of the programme on the lives of young people.

"The creativity of making and performing music can have such a powerful impact in raising ambition, giving a sense of purpose, confidence and self-respect, and for young people who lack this sense of themselves, I know Youth Music's mentoring will make a difference."

The £666,000 two-year programme will also run in Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester and Nottingham.

Youth Music was set up in 1999 with £10 million a year of Lottery funding received through Arts Council England. Since December 2000, Youth Music has set up 24 Action Zones in areas of "social and economic need and geographical isolation".