YOUNGSTERS from far and wide met in Winchester to celebrate a national volunteering project.

The city’s MP, Steve Brine, also came along to the event held by the Public Service Broadcasting Trust in Southgate Street.

The project – ITV Fixers – is a joint effort between the trust along with vinspired.com, ITV regional news and V, the national youth volunteer service.

It encourages those aged between 16 and 25 to become ‘fixers’ and put right issues that cause concern in their community.

The trust said nearly 3,000 youngsters had signed up nationwide and carried out more than 100,000 hours of voluntary work between them.

Some of the schemes are then featured on ITV regional news shows, such as Meridian.

During his visit, Mr Brine met volunteers and the project team, including trust chief executive Margo Horsley, who lives in Winchester.

The concept was her idea, and the scheme has funding until at least 2011.

She said: “It has been a pleasure to show off the incredible commitment and dedication of these young people and their enthusiasm and ability to make a change for the good of others.”

Mr Brine said the project was “fantastic and unique” and praised the way it promoted social responsibility amongst youngsters.

“I’m proud that its heart is in Winchester and that its benefits are being felt nationwide. ITV Fixers is doing a fantastic job and has my full support,” he said.