THOUSANDS of Hampshire youngsters are set to benefit from a major lottery windfall totalling £249,000.

Southampton based No Limits was awarded the money by the Big Lottery Fund and will be used to improve access to the charity which provides counselling and advice for young people.

More than 10,000 youngsters will access advice on issues such as money, housing and benefits through the three No Limits Drop-In Centre's in Sholing, Shirley and the City Centre.

No Limits delivers independent and confidential information, advice and counselling services to young people aged 13 - 25 in Southampton through drop-in centre's; schools and youth clubs.

Annabel Hodgson, manager of No Limits, said: "This is substantial and long-term funding which will really enhance the quality of advice that we can give to young people in Southampton. It will provide us with the up to date resources, staff and high quality training needed to ensure that Southampton's young people, particularly those who are disadvantaged, have the access to independent advice."

For more information visit www.nolimits-southampton.org.uk.