RUGBY maestro Jason Robinson is coming to Leigh.

The Wigan and British international star will cut the cake at Monday's opening of a new service to help young homeless people.

"Homelessness is society's problem," said the winger known as Billy Whizz. "As members of society it's a problem we should all feel strongly about."

LEAP, the Leigh young peoples housing project, offers 14 to 25-year-olds in the Leigh area a chance to gain information, advice and support on housing issues.

If offers drop-in sessions, specialist advice, training opportunities and one-to-one support and practical help.

Hands-on advice will come from young volunteers who themselves have experienced housing difficulties.

The project is based at 40 Bold Street, Leigh.

Peta Prescott, one of the Princes Trust volunteers involved, explained: "The project is called LEAP because it supports young people as they make the leap in to independent living."

Years of work by local residents and organisations who believe there are many young people struggling with housing problems have resulted in the project,

LEAP's chairman George Bridge said: "This is a celebration of years of hard work by the steering committee.

"It is a sign people in Leigh really care about the needs of young people."

LEAP has had young people from the Princes Trust Volunteers involved by working hard to make LEAP bright and cheerful by decorating the building at 40 Bold Street.

"The future can look bright with LEAP," said volunteer Claire Winnard.

And project manager Andy Jones added: "The launch is specially for young people and gives them a chance to come along to the project and see what LEAP offers."

Waterfields' Bakery sponsored the launch and will provide the celebration cake.

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