YOUNG people are taking advantage of a scheme helping them escape rural villages. The scheme, SCooTS was set up by Ricky Moore, who saw a need for transport for young people living in villages and needing access to employment, training and education opp

YOUNG people are taking advantage of a scheme helping them "escape" rural villages.

The scheme, SCooTS was set up by Ricky Moore, who saw a need for transport for young people living in villages and needing access to employment, training and education opportunities.

He said: "There was not enough public transport in the area sufficient for people to access work or college.

SCooTs was set up to help those people."

Those in employment or on training placements can hire a 50cc scooter or bicycle for six months while young people on education placements for one academic year.

Compulsory basic training is included in the hire of scooters.

Mr Moore said of the scheme set up a year ago: "It has been a success and we have had lots of positive feedback.

"It is good that we have been able to help people in areas not frequently covered by public transport."

The scooters and bicycles are available to those living in one of the village parishes of North Hertfordshire.

- For more details e-mail Ricky Moore at ricky.moore@cdaforherts.org.uk