Two years ago, Luke Taylor was sullen, angry and confrontational.
At only 14 he had all but given up on school and was heading for a life of trouble.

But, less than two years after being referred to a youth project by his mum in a last-ditch attempt to change his life, he has scooped a major award for his work in the community.

Luke, now 16, of Ringwood Road, Deepdale, Preston, was referred to the Preston United Youth Development Programme in an attempt to curb his anger and get him back to school.

Luke, a talented footballer, was placed on a programme where he was given sports coaching as long as he improved his behaviour and went to school every day.

The scheme has made such an impact that he has been able to take a place at Preston College on a BTEC sports course and he is working as a football coach, mentoring younger players.

He has now been awarded Lancashire Youth Association's Young Person of the Year for the work he has done to inspire younger people in the community.

Luke said: "When I first started there I would not do anything I did not want to, and I didn't want to go to school.

"I was starting to hang around and get in trouble. If I had not done this scheme I would be out on the streets now causing trouble, but instead I am looking at going to university."

Project manager Omar Khan said: "When he came to us he was aggressive and confrontational towards everybody, but now he is a role model for younger people.

"We gave him the chance to do something positive and I have seen a massive change in his character."

Preston United Youth Development Programme, based at Deltic House, Strand Road, Preston, helps young people improve their lives by encouraging them to take part in hobbies and work in the community.

The award was presented by Preston-based Harris Charity, at Park Hall Hotel, Chorley, earlier this month.