A MENTORING scheme set up just three years ago has received a national award for its efforts to help young people stay out of trouble.

Wiltshire Youth Offending Team received the prestigious Approved Provider Standard status at the annual awards ceremony of the National Mentoring Network.

The scheme, set up in May 1999, employs volunteers to meet regularly with offenders, befriend them and provide a positive role model.

The award was received on behalf of the scheme by Liz Priscott, a volunteer mentor.

She said: "The award of the standard is a real boost to all the mentors that the scheme has benefited and is recognition of all of the hard work that has been put in to make the scheme work.

"Providing mentoring for young people has been very rewarding for both me and the young person that I mentor.

"Most of us can remember at least one person that had a positive influence on us as we grew up. It is extremely satisfying to know that working with young people, you can help to increase their self-confidence and steer them away from crime ".

The awards were presented by Angela Eagle MP, parliamentary under secretary for Europe, community and race equality.