YOUNG people involved in a charity programme have been given a helping hand by a transport business.

Those taking part in the latest Prince's Trust programme run by Hampshire Fire and Rescue are now able to travel by bus to their course and attend community placement's thanks to a donation by Stagecoach.

Stagecoach Basingstoke has given 12, 13-week bus passes to the charity, worth over £2,900, which would enable the young people to get to and from their course.

The 12 week Princes Trust Team programme aims to reduce the number of young people who are not in education, training or employment and if they are not ready for further education or employment the programme provides them with life skills and a qualification ready for the working world.

Stagecoach operations manager Jayson Smith said: "We’re delighted to be supporting Hampshire Fire and Rescue in delivering the 12 week programme to the young people of the Basingstoke area. It’s great to help them to develop skills ready for their own career progression."

Kayleigh Jones, Prince's Trust Basingstoke team leader, said: "Transport is essential to everyone and it’s fantastic that Stagecoach have been able to donate these passes which will be such a big help for our team members. There are various units on the programme which each team member has to complete from a work placement, to charity fundraising and work in the community so the passes will be really well used."

The programme helps young people aged 16-25 build confidence, make friends, overcome barriers and gain motivation to help them enter further education and employment.