Young people across York are being challenged to make a difference to their communities this summer  - with the chance to win a trip to Disneyland Paris as the top prize!

City of York Council has teamed up with partners across the city, including the police and Norwich Union, to encourage York's youngsters to make a difference to their local area.

Called 'IT'S-UP-2-U!', the new scheme, which will be officially launched on Tuesday (12 June), is open to groups of people between 10 and 19 years of age. The young people will be challenged to plan and carry out a project that will make their community a better place to live.

Prizes will be awarded to the projects judged to be the best, with the first prize of a trip to Disneyland Paris for the group. Other prizes include an activity day with the RAF, a day our at Alton Towers and hundreds of pounds worth of vouchers.

Mary Bailey, from the council's Play Team, said: "The project could be anything from wildlife conservation to working with older people, but the main thing is that the young people are getting involved in their local communities. Youngsters have so much to offer and the summer holidays provides the time for them to create something really worthwhile.

"We've been delighted with the response from partners across the city, including Norwich Union and the police, who are supporting the scheme, and who have provided some fantastic prizes."

Deborah O'Malley, community affairs consultant for Norwich Union, said: "Norwich Union are pleased to be able to support such a great community scheme, we look forward to seeing some really creative and innovative projects taking place."

All groups must be supervised by an adult mentor and must include between two and five young people. Anyone wishing to receive an application pack should contact Christine Emeny, York Safer Communities, Lower Friargate, York, YO1 9SL.