A SCHOOLGIRL'S essay on entertainment for teenagers earned high praise from the Prime Minister and a personally signed letter.

Lauren Evans, 13, of Walshaw High, Burnley, composed the essay as part of an English lesson related to persuasive writing.

She said: "We had to imagine we had 15 minutes with Tony Blair to speak to him about a subject of our choice. I chose the facilities for teenagers in 1999 and how expensive they are. I achieved a high mark for this work and my mum suggested I sent it to Tony Blair himself.

"I am very pleased to receive this letter from the Prime Minister as I feel he has listened to my point of view and hopefully will try to do something about it."

Lauren's essay is described by the Premier as "excellent" and he says: "I found this very interesting and appreciate the points you make about the cost of public transport, entertainment and leisure activities for young people."

He explains that the Government is currently developing a Youth Card to allow free or reduced cost travel and leisure activities. It will also include commercial discounts for the cinema and educational books for 16 to 18-year-olds. Mr Blair adds: "We are now working with businesses to develop the card and agree a range of discounts which can be included on it. I hope that this will be of help to you when you are a few years older."

He advises Lauren to check out local community activities such as youth organisations, sports groups and Uniformed Movements.

"One of the things which has struck me most in my meetings and discussions with young people around the country is not only what a huge difference they make when they get involved in their communities, but also how much they enjoy it, and very often it costs them little but their time."

He advises Lauren to write to the youth service and the National Youth Agency to find out more before wishing her "the best of luck for the future".

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.