YOUNG people in the borough are to benefit from better advice and support.

That is the forecast after Bury Council was awarded the £1.4 million contract to take over the Connexions service.

The contract has been awarded by Greater Manchester Connexions to improve the co-ordination and quality of information, help and support for young people, with more involvement in education, training and employment in the borough.

Councillor Siobhan Costello, executive member for community services, said: "This is one of the major services provided for young people across the borough and we are hoping that our leadership will provide an even greater focus on helping our customers."

Connexions, a nationwide Government scheme, operates from from its main premises in Broad Street, Bury, where young people can "drop in", the service extends to schools, colleges, social services and youth groups.

There are plans to open Connexions access points in youth centres in each town. The service is available to all young people aged between 13 and 19 as well as those with learning difficulties up to the age of 25.

Connexions helps young people with a range of issues, including careers, housing, benefits, drugs, health and personal relationships.

From April, Bury Connexions will be managed within the council's education and culture department under the auspices of Lifelong Learning which currently incorporates the youth service and Adult/Community Learning.