SKIDZ Motor Project is to receive a £15,000 grant to support its work with young people after Wycombe District Council approved its application.

The charity, based in High Wycombe, has been running vehicle maintenance courses for 16 years for young people of all abilities between the ages 13 and 19.

Initially launched to combat car crime in the area, SKIDZ has now evolved to offer a wide range of courses to more young people, emphasising on helping students into further education, training and employment opportunities.

Since getting off the starting grid in 1998 the organisation has helped more than 8,000 youngsters in the region to gain vocational skills.

Graham Andrews, Skidz CEO, said: ""We originally approached Wycombe District Council for a £15,000 loan to match another that we had already secured. However, I am very pleased that the panel decided it would be much more beneficial in the long-term to award these funds as a grant instead, thus freeing us from the burden of repayments.

"The council is a valued supporter of our work, as demonstrated by Council Chairman, Councillor Lesley Clarke’s attendance at our awards evening this summer, and this recent decision to award this much-needed grant.

"The funds will be put to very good use in support of the young people seeking to learn a trade, improve their life skills and secure a more hopeful future."

The charity also works with local schools and Amersham and Wycombe College to offer students the option of motor mechanics courses – the grant money will go towards providing more courses for more students and in new areas.

Councillor Julia Adey, Cabinet Member for Community at Wycombe District Council, said: "This project, which has been running in Wycombe for many years, has evolved from a fledgling idea to a great project.

"Over the years it has helped many young people, not only to gain useful motor skills, but life skills too, which have ultimately helped them gain employment and improve their self-esteem and confidence."

To find out more about SKIDZ courses and how to get involved or to make a donation visit: www.SKIDZ.org.uk