YOUTH projects in Botley, Hedge End and West End are set to benefit from £2,500 of council money.

Grants ranging from £50 to £500 will be made to support activities for young people in the three communities.

The grants are to be distributed by the youth council, originally set up by Hedge End Town Council and recently extended to cover youngsters in Botley and West End.

The cash was given to the youth council by Eastleigh Borough Council to hand out as members saw fit.

Councillor George Fraser said: "This scheme has proved very successful in previous years.

"By involving younger members of our community in the decision-making and distribution of grants we are confident that we will be getting funds to the most appropriate causes."

Applications need to be in by January 11 and forms can be picked up from Hedge End Town Council offices, St John's Road, or from Helen Coleman at Eastleigh civic offices.