Northumberland Wildlife Trust has announced a new programme, funded by National Citizen Service (NCS).

The Trust is one of around 100 groups in England awarded a share of a £20m fund from the NCS for community-based initiatives.

Such experiences will complement NCS's existing away-from-home residential offer for young people, providing more skills development opportunities.

The Trust's project, Eco Influencers, will support up to 80 students, aged 16-17, from schools, youth or community groups.

They will conceive and conduct environmental projects to benefit their local communities, ranging from creating wildlife spaces to hosting clothes exchanges.

Julia Carr, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Wild City Manager, said: "This wonderful grant from NCS will help us to support more young people as they strive to make a difference for the environment.

"The Eco Influencers project is that little bit different as it's youth-led, allowing young people to make decisions and lead the way on their own projects."

Mark Gifford, CEO of NCS Trust said: "I am delighted to welcome a diverse range of local, grassroots and community organisations from across the youth sector to deliver reimagined NCS experiences.

"Together, we will work towards creating a country of confident, connected, caring citizens where everyone feels at home."

Groups interested in the Eco Influencers scheme can visit the Trust's website.