SCHOOL is almost out for the summer and Barnardo's need people to offer support with their Summer Play Scheme.

The volunteers must be aged 14 years and over, and they will be helping young people aged 5 to 18 years.

The scheme will run from Monday July 23 until Friday August 24 and will take place Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm.

A training course will be provided for the week before the scheme, covering basic disability awareness, child protection, health and safety and basic communication skills. The skills will look great on any CV, along with volunteer experience. Although volunteers don't get paid, they can claim travelling expenses and a dinner allowance will be provided. Applicants will also have the option to be registered with Millennium Volunteers who are currently working with Banardo's.

The scheme runs four venues in the area, divided into ages and group abilities.

The scheme provides a safe and playful environment for the groups enabling the young people to get together with friends and meet new people. They are also taken on trips to local attractions, parks and swimming, while running lots of activities such as arts and craft sessions, sports and outside entertainment.

Meanwhile, staff from University of Central Lancashire are also running a whole summer of sporting activity at Preston Sports Arena, in Tom Benson Way.

There will be rounders, tennis, cycling, orienteering, football and Athletics on between 10am and 3pm, Mondays to Fridays, from July 23 to August 31. Children can sign up for a week at a time, a half week or the whole period.

Everyday there will be general play-scheme activities, but in addition, qualified coaches will be helping children to work towards recognised awards in Athletics, Cycling and Kwik Cricket.

Anthony Hopkins, supervisor at the Preston Sports Arena, said: "We recommend children bring wet weather clothes, a packed lunch and plenty of soft drinks. They will be supervised over a lunch time period if they are staying all day."

For further information ring 01772 761000.