Preston's Foxton Centre awarded BBC Children in Need grant for youth work

The charity was handed more than £116,000 by BBC Children in Need, which will be split across three years.

Jeff Marsh, chief executive officer, said the cash is being used to help deliver one-to-one and group support for children and young people in Avenham and Frenchwood with the aim of improving their physical and mental health, addressing risky behaviour, and helping maintain attendance at school, employment and training.

He added: “I hardly dared to open the email when it arrived in my inbox.

“We are so fortunate to have secured this funding, and everyone involved is absolutely delighted.

“Big thanks to Pudsey and all the people who raise money for Children in Need.

“The grant means we can help our children and young people be more physically active and give them some choice in their leisure time, which has a huge impact on their health and wellbeing.

“We can enable them to make informed choices about staying safe and healthy, following the law, and knowing their rights.”

The £116,913 grant will fund salaries, staff-related costs, volunteer expenses, equipment, trips away and project costs.

Jeff added: “We encourage all our children and young people to experience as many opportunities as they can – that’s how we equip them with a thirst for the future beyond what they may previously have thought possible.”

The Foxton Centre works with the most marginalised communities in Preston and is always looking for volunteers. Contact 01772 555925.