Epsom and Ewell MP Chris Grayling joined a group of his younger constituents who are taking part in National Citizen Service, a nationwide youth programme which brings 15 to 17 years olds together to learn new skills during the school holidays.

Young people participating in the scheme take part in three phases of activities, including personal and team challenges, which benefit the local community, including an action-packed residential stay at an activity centre, learning a new skill and designing and running a team project.

About 350 young people in Epsom and Ewell take part each year. During his visit, Mr Grayling met young people in their second phase of the programme and supported their work learning life and work skills, such as budgeting and public speaking.

Mr Grayling said: “It’s fantastic to see the valuable work of National Citizen Service being supported in Glyn School and helping local young people to further their education outside of the classroom, make new friends, and develop essential skills for work and life”

He added: “I was delighted to spend time with so many young people from Epsom and Ewell who are participating in National Citizen Service and making a difference in our local community.”

The National Citizen Service also aims to help develop young people’s resilience and wellbeing as well as boosting community engagement across the country.

To find out more about NCS, or to sign up to take part, go to ncsthechallenge.org