A FREE texting scheme for youngsters is being launched by Rochford District Council next month.

The pilot will initially be rolled out to young people aged between 11 and 19 years old and aims to improve residents’ access to services.

The council’s communications department will send text alerts outside of school hours to all those who have registered.

The messages will contain information about events and services which young people have said they want to hear more about.

Everyone who visits the website and signs up for the service within the first month will be automatically entered into a weekly prize draw for a £25 Love2Shop voucher.

For more information and to sign up, go to: www.rochford.gov.uk/textalerts.