GWENT youngsters are set to benefit from almost half a million pounds of Lottery cash.

The Big Lottery Fund is awarding cash to various schemes across Wales.

In Blaenau Gwent, an award of £206,196 will the council to run a project to involve 'disengaged' young people aged 13-18 in positive activities through a 'reward' scheme.

Young people will gain credits through particpating in community activities or meeting goals.

Credits will be redeemed for various leisure activities.

Learning new skills takes centre stage in Newport.

Urban Circle Productions will spend their award of £225,888 on a project to promote life long learning and inclusiveness using technology to allow young people to build confidence, gain new skills and express themselves through creative arts like music and dance and multi-media.

The grant, over three years, will fully fund radio & broadcasting equipment, DJ equipment, PA system and computer equipment.