PLANS are under way to drive South Ribble teenagers away from crime by training them up in motor mechanics.

A pilot scheme involving the borough council and a whole host of partners will target 16 to 24-year-olds who have no direction in life and can drift into crime.

The idea comes after a similar project in Preston, set up three years ago, proved a resounding success. Some 18 young people will be trained in basic car maintenance, driving skills and safety at the council's vehicle depot on Moss Side and SGL Garage in Leyland from April.

The number of South Ribble youngsters expelled from school has gone up by 23 per cent in the past three years, and under 24-year-olds account for a third of the area's jobless total.

Young people from Moss Side, Kingsfold and Seven Stars - where unemployment is highest - will be referred for the scheme.

Carole Shaw, assistant chief executive at South Ribble Council said: "Youngsters who don't quite fit into the system feel they've nowhere to go and aren't part of anything. They often lack confidence, skills, the ability to communicate and motivation.

"The project hopes to make them feel they can plan and achieve something, be part of a group, and that people will listen to them. Research shows that tinkering with cars appeals to them, gives them responsibility and a better chance of finding a job."

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