RE: Youngsters to be proud of. I would like to say a heartfelt thanks to those at the Bolton Evening News, who chose to report two good news stories regarding young people in Bolton who have experienced many challenges in their lives and yet have achieved great things for themselves and for others.

They are a credit to all, and we are right to celebrate their success.

On Friday, January 27, you ran two stories - one relating to a group of 14 to 16 year old boys who attend a Pupil Referral Unit, having experienced great difficulties in mainstream schools, and who have developed exceptional skills in joinery and woodwork. The boys constructed an office and laboratory with minimal supervision from their tutors, and they did this to a very high standard. This required good teamwork, exceptional skill and commitment, and this type of work has enabled the young people to develop a more positive view of themselves and the contribution they can make to society both now and in the future.

The other story related to a group of volunteers from Bolton Lads and Girls Club who have mentored young people, enabling those youngsters to overcome difficulties in their lives and to face the future with greater confidence and self esteem. Many of those mentored have then gone on to mentor others.

At present a great deal of media reporting portrays young people in a negative light, and this leads to the predominant view of young people as troublesome, 'up to no good' and 'not to be trusted'.

I work in Bolton with all of the Pupil Referral Units, and I know first hand of the excellent work which goes on in these units. Many of the young people who attend the units have had very troubled lives with the sort of challenges most of us will never have to deal with, and yet, with the dedication and professionalism shown by staff towards helping and supporting these young people, we are able to make a significant difference to their life chances. As well as giving some young people skills in joinery and construction we have enabled youngsters to take exams and to achieve against all odds. We have one unit which is now on the government list of 'most successful schools in the country'.

By having high expectations, showing respect to young people, understanding their challenges and working with them to re-engage them in education, as well as helping them develop a belief in themselves, lives can be turned around, and this helps create a brighter future for these young people, their families, and for society in general.

So thank you for this reporting - the young people will be proud, and so will their families and carers and the many staff who work with them.

Margaret Edwards

Manager, Bolton Pupil Referral Service

Great Stone Close

Egerton