CHILDREN as young as eight could be taking part in litter picks in their communities across Southampton if plans to extend a pilot scheme city-wide get the go-ahead.

The junior warden project, which aims to curb antisocial behaviour and help youngsters clean up the environment, was introduced in Millbrook last year.

Children aged from eight to 12 have taken part in the scheme, which has included litter picks and communication training.

Civic leaders hope to launch similar initiatives in other parts of the city.

Plans are also under way to set up a version for teenagers, which could see them taking part in graffiti-cleaning programmes and helping older people with shopping.

It would run first in the Weston area before being extended if successful.

They hope it will make youngsters feel committed to their neighbourhoods and provide worthwhile activities.

The voluntary warden projects will be discussed by Southampton City Council's Cabinet on Monday.

Council leader Councillor Adrian Vinson said: "It's very much part of our commitment to creating constructive opportunities for young people and linking it in with our agendas of improving the environment and stopping anti-social behaviour. Things like graffiti and litter cross those agendas."

He added that the project, if extended across wards, would make Southampton the only city in the country to have a city-wide team of young wardens.

"With the scheme in Millbrook, lots of youngsters joined and seemed to enjoy the experience of doing something useful in terms of improving the environment," he said.

"As an administration we are looking to have the funds to roll out that approach city-wide.

"We are also looking to set up a youth scheme for 13 to 18-year-olds.

"It's innovative as we are not aware of any other city that has a city-wide warden scheme like this and approaching things quite the way that we are.

"In this respect, it is a trailblazing initiative."

Ruth Dalzell, of the National Children's Bureau - which is the largest multi-agency network of child education, health and social care professionals in the UK - said: "As an organisation we are all for involving young people in community initiatives. From our experience young people are very keen to be involved. They are very energetic and enthusiastic and generally willing to take part."

But she added that it is important that they be given feedback as soon as possible.

"They need feedback so that they can see their contribution is valued and the difference it makes," she said. "Being involved in this way builds understanding and social responsibility in young people."