An MP has become the patron of a youth charity.

Hove MP Mike Weatherley has spoken of his delight after being named a patron of the YMCA.

The Christian charity is the largest and oldest youth charity in the world with 135 branches in England.

Sussex Central YMCa was founded in 1919 with a Youth Advice Centre in Blatchington Road in Hove, Safe and Sorted drop-in centre in Hodshrove Lane in Brighton and The Horsham Young Person Alcohol Initiative in the Y Centre in Albion Way, Horsham.

Mr Weatherley said: “I was pleased to be invited to help the YMCA champion the issues facing young people.

“I look forward to working closely with the charity in Hove and Portslade and in the House of Commons.”