IN Greek mythology, a wise old man named Mentor was responsible for preparing future kings for their role as a ruler.

Mentor's task was to pass on his wealth of knowledge and experience, encouraging the future king to take responsibility for his actions.

Today, thousands of years later and hundreds of miles away, the Swindon Mentoring and Self Help group (SMASH) is applying the same principles used in ancient Greece to help get troubled youngsters' lives back on track.

SMASH, based in Upper Stratton, does not just deal with young offenders.

Now social services and voluntary agencies which care for young people can refer anyone they feel is vulnerable and would benefit from having a mentor for 12 months.

Those lucky enough to be referred will benefit from a service that has been recognised with a national standard of excellence.

Last week, project co-ordinator, Rebecca Rice, 35, was presented with the National Mentoring Network standard at the Tower of London one of only 50 projects to receive the award.

SMASH was rewarded for its "well organised and structured programme with clearly defined aims."

SMASH also received the good news that funding from the Swindon Hidden Deprivation Project (part of the European Social Fund) has been granted for a year.

"The award is an endorsement for all the hard work we put into to changing lives for the better," said Ms Rice.

"If we hadn't received funding, the project would have come to an end and that would have let down all the volunteers and young people who rely on our help.

"However, the project today is still not funded to the extent it was in the past and we would welcome any new sponsorship."

SMASH has also become an integral part of the Swindon Education Business Partnership (SEBP), which means that for the first time it can apply for lottery and trust funding.

"We exist to help young people who might have a history of truancy or offending and who have very low self esteem," said Ms Rice.

"Now we can cast the net wider and help more young people.

"Those living outside Swindon only see it as an successful town, but 48 per cent of the young people we work are excluded from mainstream education or have special educational needs."

Swindon Council's Youth Offending Team set up SMASH in December 1999.

Since then more than 50 youths have participated in the voluntary scheme, which aims to lessen the risk of re-offending.

SMASH is busy fundraising in the business community and searching for new mentors. It currently has around 30 on its books.

Ms Rice said: "Becoming a mentor is a challenge but it is very rewarding we have found that our mentors have built very good relationships with the youngsters.

"Mentors really need a good understanding of young people and must have time to give.

"Their aim is to restore self esteem and help young people strive towards gaining employment or raising their school attendance.

"The mentor acts as an inspiration drawing on their life experience in a positive way."

If you are interested in becoming a mentor call SMASH on Swindon 836667 or email smash.yproject@Swindon.gov.uk