Teenagers to get funding

Tory rulers in south Shropshire have created a £44,000 fund for teenagers in the district, it was revealed today.

District council leaders want to spend money on youth projects that will help local teenagers.

They announced details of the new fund today - just 24 hours after being criticised for not supporting plans for a youth travel discount.

The card, which had been proposed by Liberal Democrats in the district, was voted out because ruling Tories said it could not be launched in time for April.

It would also have faced the axe in April 2009 when a new unitary authority is created.

Today Councillor Mrs Cecilia Motley, the district council's leader, said the council had created a £44,000 fund that would go to youth projects.

She said: "This money has been set aside to be spent on projects that will help local youngsters.

"We may also be able to secure some match funding from external grant-giving organisations, which will increase the amount that we are able to spend.

"We are absolutely committed to providing facilities and services for youngsters in the district. We refute any suggestion to the contrary."

Councillor Martin Taylor-Smith, the district's finance boss, said the council was doing more than most authorities. He added a list was currently being drawn up and officials would soon allocate funds.