A MALMESBURY charitable group have released details for a packed summer programme for youngsters.

Heals, who work with vulnerable people in the community have joined forces with a number of organisations to offer a range of exciting opportunities.

The summer programme is for young people in the Malmesbury area who have special needs and or whose family is struggling financially.

Nine youngsters have already secured their place, at a two week long residential summer camp in Somerset.

Heals have also confirmed three big day trips to Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge, The National Arboretum at Westonbirt and the higher ropes and wires at Lydiard Park‎.

They will also be booking tickets for the film children's screening at Movies at Malmesbury.

Half day sessions with Malmesbury Tennis Club‎, Malmesbury Junior Football, Malmesbury Cricket Club and the closing picnic, activities and awards ceremony hosted by Malmesbury Abbey have also been finalised.

Cllr Gavin Grant, Chair of Trustees of HEALS said: "Many parents struggle with the long Summer school break.

"This is particularly true for those with young people with special needs or where money is really tight.

"Our local schools do a great job for these young people in term time but when the holidays come it's a different story.

"This is a huge amount of work for the HEALS team.

"So it is great to have so much support from local groups, Wiltshire Council, local grant makers and residents.

"We know local young people who do not get these opportunities really look forward to our Summer programme and get a lot out of it. "Their laughter and happiness make all the effort worthwhile."

The programme will run from Monday, July 30 until Wednesday, August 22 and is for those between the ages of 8 and 16 years old.

Forms must be returned by no later than Friday, July 20.

If you haven't yet picked up a form call 01666 238100