A local youth project is now able to travel further afield, thanks to support from Valero Pembroke Refinery.

Milford Youth Matters is a youth organisation for people between the ages of 14 and 25 living in Milford Haven and the surrounding area. They aim to provide advice and assistance to young people and organise educational and physical programmes and other activities.

As part of their outreach programme, the group regularly organise trips in the local area to help young people at risk of anti-social behaviour. However, efforts to expand the range of activities on offer have previously been limited by the need for members of staff to complete a minibus driving test and the minibus driver awareness scheme (MiDAS).

A £300 donation from the Valero community engagement fund, however, has since helped the group fund Milford Youth Matters staff to qualify for these vital courses.

Milford Youth Matters project co-ordinator Sian Jones, receiving the cheque from Valero, said: "A lack of transport is often a major barrier for young people and this funding from Valero for minibus training will really allow us to expand the range of services we can offer, such as helping transport young unemployed people to jobs fairs and arranging activities during evenings, weekends and school holidays."

Stephen Thornton, Valero public affairs manager, said: "Milford Youth Matters performs an incredible local service, working directly with young people and offering them effective support. Valero is delighted to be able to offer this practical support to this truly inspiring organisation."