BLACKBURN has been chosen for the launch pad of a pilot project for young people.

The Prince's Trust launched Route 14/25 at Ewood Park when details were revealed of how it will benefit up to 1,500 people in Lancashire and an estimated 4,000 across the North West.

Supported by the Royal Bank of Scotland and working in partnership with local agencies, the scheme offers support and guidance to people aged between 14 and 25.

By building relationships with other agencies, the trust -- the UK's biggest charity -- will be able to point people the right direction.

Blackburn was chosen after research by the trust showed that young people in the town faced "considerable problems" including ethnic diversity, unemployment, family breakdown and underachievement.

Among the many to benefit from the scheme is 29-year-old Joseph Eddleston, from Blackburn, who set up a holiday company with £5,000 trust money offering trips and cycling tours to the Lake District.

Joe said: "The Prince's Trust is a hot point of key information. Apart from financial help I have been able to expose my business on a national level through networking opportunities. Route 14/25 will make this service even better."

Jackie Tyler, regional director North West for the Prince's Trust, said: "Route 14/25 will drastically reduce the number young people who fall through the net as they move towards further education, training or job opportunity."