A start-up programme is being launched in the north of the Island next month, to help residents form community projects in their local area.

It's the latest phase of the LinC - or Leadership in the Community - initiative, backed by Friends Provident International and the Isle of Man Children's Centre.

The northern LinC programme witll be launched at the Bonwick Family centre, in Lezayre Road in Ramsey, on April 21.

There's advice and possibly funding on offer for projects which 'answer a community's needs'.

Elsewhere in the Island, these have included children's play sessions and open days to promote scouting.

Those keen to start up a project in their community will be offered a 12-week course with tuition in leadership skills.

Application forms to enroll in the Northern LinC programme are available online from thechildrens centre.org.im or from The Family Centre in Ramsey.