A college has scooped a £280,000 handout from the European Social Fund to help disadvantaged youngsters.

Eastbourne College of Arts and Technology received the cash to fund three projects to help meet the Government's agenda for social inclusion and lifelong learning.

The money will pay for a range of projects including the development of IT skills, free driving lessons and opportunities for personal growth.

There will also be a programme to help young mothers unable to attend college because of family commitments.

Margaret Shepherd, manager of the development and enterprise unit at the college, said: "The staff and partners worked very hard on these bids which will benefit young people and adults in Eastbourne and across East Sussex."