YOUNG people from Harrow will pilot a new national volunteering programme set up after the old one was axed.

Fifteen young people will do two weeks of training through the National Citizenship Service before planning a project aimed at making a difference in their community.

The programme, which lasts a total of eight weeks, is being run with charity vinspired, who were behind the two-year vTalent initiative axed following Government cuts to the charity.

The Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust is also involved.

Khalid O'Beirne, was part of the original scheme and will help co-ordinate the new one.

He said: “Volunteering with Harrow Council through vTalent changed my life. It taught me to believe in myself and gave me valuable experience.

“I am looking forward to working with these young people so they can benefit like I did, and I cannot wait to see what projects people come forward with for them to get stuck into.”

Councillor Mitzi Green, responsible for children's services, said: “It’s a tough time for young people trying to find employment, and the skills they gain through this project will help to focus them and provide them with valuable experience as they make the transition into adulthood.

“Volunteering and helping out in the community can be very rewarding and I hope they get a lot out of it.”