PLACES are now available for a national scheme aimed at getting school leavers to take part in community projects.

Last month Warrington Youth Club announced it would provide a base for the National Citizen Service initiative in the area.

Promoted by Prime Minister David Cameron, the voluntary programme is designed to put together teenagers from different backgrounds.

It was piloted last year with more than 8,000 youngsters taking part but following the nationwide riots the Government has decided to extend the scheme.

There are now 30,000 places up for grabs across the country.

In Warrington, 96 spots are available and anyone currently in year 11 at high school can apply.

The free course will include three weeks of full time work including two residential periods.

A further 30 hours of voluntary work will then take place on a part-time basis.

Activities will range from outdoor pursuits such as canoeing and mountaneering, to clean-up projects.

Connexions Cheshire and Warrington is now taking applications.

Anyone who registers an interest will then be invited to events to hear more details and meet those involved.

To find out more go to connexions-cw.co.uk call 0800 980 9877 or e-mail info@connexions-cw.co.uk.

You can also search for NCS on Facebook.