Boxer Paddy backs north city kids

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Olympic boxing hero Paddy Barnes has thrown his weight behind a new youth initiative in his native north Belfast.

The bronze medallist has launched Let Youth Lead, which has received lottery funding of Â£500,000.

Cliftonville Community Regeneration Forum developed the project to give young people in the area training and personal development opportunities.

"A project like this is really important, there's never been anything like it until now," said Paddy.

"There are so many things teenagers can get caught up in like drink and drug abuse.

"I was lucky enough to get involved in sport but me and my friends were just like any of the kids round here."