 Prince Charles is the Duke of Cornwall |
Three 15-year-olds have been telling Prince Charles about the success of an activities project running in deprived villages in mid-Cornwall. Under the YP2-Clay scheme, launched by Prince Charles in 1999, youngsters are given a �20 voucher to redeem on activities of their choice.
YP2-Clay and two other similar projects in England, are aimed at improving confidence and initiative.
Nicola Twining who took part in the Cornwall project with her twin Rachael said: "It did seem a bit far-fetched at first, but we found out more information. It really is as simple as it seems."
The 15-year-olds from St Stephen used their first voucher for a trip to Alton Towers.
It's been a positive experience  |
This year they are planning to organise a beach party for Doubletrees in St Blazey - a local school for children with learning disabilities. "We want to show we're not typical teenagers," said Nicola, who, with other youngsters on the scheme, met Prince Charles at his Highgrove residence in Gloucestershire.
Fellow YP2-Clay member Lizzie Trudgeon, 15, of Roche said: "It makes us work together as a team. It's been a positive experience."
More than 600 vouchers have been issued and other activities have included quad biking and surfing lessons.
Oliver Baines, director of Cornwall Rural Community Council said the project may well be extended to other areas.
"The project had been set up to inspire and encourage youngsters to show leadership skills.
"They felt unvalued without any control over their lives and anything to aspire for."