CHILDREN and young people are the focus of a major agency fair being held in Southampton today.

School groups and youth organisations will perform various presentations and dance routines on the stage of the Southampton Guildhall, as more than 70 organisations fill the venue with information and advice for young people.

The third annual event by organisers South Central Connexions aims to bring together groups and services in the region to help young people more effectively.

Civic chiefs and council officers will attend the fair as they launch the children and young people's plan which aims to bring the authority's services together to improve support for young people.

As part of this year's event, a "Frank" room will be set up where visitors can talk to trained advisers about drugs and alcohol in a relaxed environment.

Kevin Allan, Connexions manager for Southampton, said: "There are so many excellent support agencies for young people in Southampton. This event aims to bring them all together to share best practice and demonstrate the varied work that they do. Afro- Caribbean drummers, the Southampton Gym Club and a street dance group will guarantee a really lively day."

The event, sponsored by Connexions, the Southampton Safe City Partnership and the Children's Fund, starts at 11am at the Guildhall.