More than 8,000 young people from across Liverpool are enjoying an action-packed summer by taking part in exciting activities across the city.

Splash, run by the Lib Dem city council's Youth Service, is taking place at Lifestyles leisure centres, libraries, community and play centres and theatres throughout the school holidays.

A total of 80 different venues are hosting or organising events for 8 to 17 year olds ranging from swimming, football, go-karting and trampolining right through to dance and drama workshops, dragon boat racing, mountain biking, rock climbing and kayaking.

And as part of the massive scheme, youngsters will be learning circus skills including plate spinning, unicycling and tight rope walking at Peter Lloyd Lifestyles leisure centre in Tuebrook this Thursday (August 7).

Councillor Marilyn Fielding, Lib Dem executive member for the youth service, said: "This is the sixth year of Splash and it just gets bigger and better every time.

"We want to give kids from every walk of life in Liverpool the chance to try their hand at something new, to get involved in constructive and positive activities this summer, and above all to have a great time.

"Wherever they are in Liverpool, youngsters should be no more than a short bus trip from their nearest activity centre.

"There are so many great events going on that Liverpool children are being spoilt for choice - and rightly so given that it's our year as European Capital of Culture."

The projects are being supported by a team of 31 "street mates" aged 16-19, who are paid £155 per week to provide 25 hours of mentoring and supervision.

They have been given training in order to help, assist and buddy up with vulnerable youngsters who may be shy and otherwise unwilling to take part in the activities. The street mates will be employed until the end of March next year and work at after-school clubs during term-time.