NEW youth groups, sports clubs and community events could soon be running across North Somerset.

Community Opportunities in Nailsea (COIN) has been set up to dish out £21,500 to different groups across Nailsea, Tickenham, Wraxall and Failand which provide activities for children aged up to 19.

Karl Day, chair of volunteer group COIN, said: “We see this as an important opportunity for our young people.

“We know increased participation improves life chances through increased confidence and the development of practical skills that directly improve employability opportunities.We are very fortunate that a range of successful activities already exists in Nailsea and the surrounding area.

“The additional funding is directly targeting gaps in the provision as identified by young people.”

COIN is holding a meeting with young people, hosted by Nailsea Lions, to find out what type of activities and groups they would like to see set up in the area.

Mr Day added: “We are also looking to commission providers who could develop community projects that will engage and inspire young people and gain participation from them and their families.

“We are already assisting Street Games in identifying areas where young people hang out. Street Games brings in various sports and play equipment just to let the young people get on and play.”

COIN is helping Nailsea School to run its annual showcase this year so new groups will be able to show people what they are doing and gain more support.

As well as funding new sports and youth clubs, organisers want to encourage volunteering and develop an ambassador and young leader programme.

Anyone interested in setting up a new group or any groups keen to train young leaders can apply for funding by emailing Karl Day at coi.nailsea@btconnect.com

The initial £21,500 grant was given to the area by North Somerset Council and COIN members have already secured an extra £4,000 to spend on youngsters.

After the council’s decision to withdraw further funding to youth groups next year, COIN must now search for extra cash from other sources so it can support any new groups which are set up.