Scores of Exmouth youngsters are to be given a helping hand finding work, thanks to the Prince’s Trust.

Yesterday, the youth charity launched a �100,000 project which plans to change the lives of hundreds of disadvantaged young people struggling to find a job.

The Trust’s Regional Director, Rick Libbey, who grew up in Exmouth, was, on Wednesday, at the Royal Beacon Hotel to showcase the new scheme.

He said the charity was now offering more programmes, proven to help unemployed teenagers to 30-year-olds, realise their potential.

Mr Libbey said support from local businesses, including Trinity Protection Systems, Eveling Legal and South West Communications Group, would enable the charity to expand its reach in the town over the next four years.

Later this year, the Trust will also run its Enterprise Programme in Exmouth, helping unemployed young people who are interested in becoming self-employed or setting up their own business.

Exmouth Community College has started running a Prince’s Trust course which helps 14-16-year-olds improve their attendance and performance at school.

Mr Libbey said the new scheme would also allow more young people from the town to attend Prince’s Trust programmes in Exeter, funding their travel costs and giving them the skills and confidence to find work.

He said: “Youth unemployment in East Devon is more than twice as high as the regional average.

“However, thanks to support from local businesses, we are now able to offer real opportunities to young people from Exmouth and the surrounding areas who are struggling to find work.”

“Giving young people from Exmouth the chance to fulfil their potential will benefit not only the young people themselves, but also their families and the whole community.

“Supporting the next generation into jobs and training is vital, if we want to secure a bright future for the town.”

Martin Gill, co-founder of The Magnolia Incentive, a local educational charity which is supporting the initiative, welcomed The Prince’s Trust’s announcement.

He said: “There are a lot of talented young people in Exmouth, but too many do not get the chance to succeed.

“I’m proud to support this new initiative with The Prince’s Trust, which I believe will really transform the lives of many local young people.”

Young people from Exmouth, who want to find out more about The Prince’s Trust, can call 0800 842842 or visit www.princes-trust.org.uk.