AN innovative project providing trailblazing support to young people across Pendle is hoping to expand after its official launch.

Around 500 children have already been referred to the Wheels within Wheels project which provides recreational activities and vocational training.

The project gives young people the chance to use vehicles such as mud buggies, trailbikes, go-peds, mountain bikes and skateboards in a safe and supervised environment.

It aims to reduce the number of young people involved in anti-social behaviour while providing them with vehicle maintenance skills and other useful information.

Pupils from Walton, Primet, Park and Edge End schools and young people from Waterside Youth Club and Coldwell Activity Centre are involved with the project, and organisers hope more young people can become involved in more activities.

Project manager John Gradwell said: "Wheels within Wheels has already made a real difference to hundreds of young people, giving them opportunity, hope and inspiration.

"Our project helps young people to have fun, be safe and stay out of trouble while learning about themselves and how to work in a team.

"Now that we're up and running it's time to hit top gear and really give young people in Pendle a flying start in life."