HUDDERSFIELD Technical College will soon be helping young Guides and Scouts gain merit badges.

From September, Guides and Scouts from all over West Yorkshire will be taking courses at the college.

The skills they learn - such as cookery and electronics - will enable them to gain merit badges.

The courses will be run in evenings and on weekends by college tutors.

Guide or Scout group leaders will ask the college in advance to prepare a course to relate to a particular badge, such as cookery.

The group of youngsters will then all take the course at once. Courses will vary in length, depending on the subject.

They will be free, as the project is being funded by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

Donna Milligan, project co-ordinator at the college, said: "Yorkshire Forward had the money and we had the facilities. Our teaching expertise and facilities were being under-used on an evening, so it made sense for us to help.

"We have a huge range of courses, all specially adapted for the younger age group. It involves almost every department at the college. We are very keen to welcome younger learners."

The project won a thumbs-up from Guide leaders who recently attended an open evening at the college to see demonstrations ranging from bathing `reality doll' babies in childcare classes to creating websites.

Kath Shooter, County Commission for West Yorkshire South Guides, said: " We are very excited about the new venture. There are so many different opportunities."

Another open evening will be held in September. Ring Donna Milligan on 01484 536521, ext 7808, for details.