A new scheme has been launched in Keighley to help unemployed 16 to 25-year-olds find work.

The Prince's Trust has joined forces with Bradford's YMCA to run a 12-week course from Springfield Mill. Keighley.

Bradford YMCA has been running the Volunteers Programme for a number of years, but found few people from Keighley were using the service.

They teamed up with the Prince's Trust to launch the scheme in Keighley last month.

George Ford, general manager at West Yorkshire's Prince's Trust, said: "The Volunteers Programme offers a fantastic opportunity for young people in Keighley.

"The 12-week programme enables young people to develop their confidence, motivation and skills through teamwork in the community. Hopefully young people will reap the benefits for many years to come."

The young people who take part in the free course join a team of up to 15 participants.

During the 12 weeks, they go on a five-day residential, undertake community projects and fundraising schemes and go on work placements. The current group of volunteers have just returned from a residential at Lakeside YMCA on Lake Windermere. They have already started on a new project at Springfield Mill itself.

The group are decorating a room in the building and cleaning up the surrounding outdoor area.

Team leader, Ruth Blenkinsop, said: "The whole idea behind the course is to offer young people the chance to improve their skills and communication abilities.

"We hope to show young people what options are available to them, whether it be college, training courses or employment."

The Prince of Wales founded the Prince's Trust in 1976. The Trust has become the UK's leading youth charity, offering a range of opportunities including training, personal development, business start-up support, mentoring and advice.

The 12-week Volunteers Programme was launched in 1990.

More than 70 per cent of unemployed participants have found work or entered full time education or training after completing the scheme. For further information call, Ruth on 01274 733996.