SARAH is 14 and unable to live with her parents. She has no contact with her natural family and lives in a children's home out of town.

She is just one of lots of youngsters in Bolton who need someone to befriend them.

A Project in the town has been set to offer guidance and support to youngsters like Sarah and they are looking for anyone over the age of 18 who can spare a few hours once a fortnight.

Bolton Independent Visitors Project is being run by Bolton Social Services in partnership with Spurgeon's Child Care, an international children's charity and the aim is to offer guidance and support to children being looked after by the local authority.

The youngsters who are aged up to 18 years, currently have little or no contact with their parents or natural family and will have experienced many changes in their lives.

The Project wants to recruit volunteers to befriend a child or young person on a one to one basis, sharing their interests and hobbies.

Volunteers can be male or female, any age, background or ethnic group who have an interest in helping children and young people.

Training and support will be given and agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed.

Contact Jane Hayes on 01204 337473 for more details.