Footballer hopes to help steer youths from crime

Exeter City's Ilmari Niskanen is hoping his story can guide the attendees "in the right direction"

An Exeter City footballer hopes to use his own "positive and negative" experiences to encourage young people to stay in education and away from crime.

Finnish midfielder Ilmari Niskanen, who was convicted of a drink driving offence in March, is taking part in a new scheme set up by the Exeter City Community Trust.

Change Our Path targets 12-18 year-olds identified as being involved in - or at risk of - youth crime and educational disengagement.

Niskanen said he wants to make amends for his past errors, and said he can "guide the youngsters in the right direction".

Danny Harris, who runs the scheme, said it was an chance for young people "to engage with trusted adults and football players to see that there are other opportunities out there".

Funded by the Premier League and the Professional Footballers Association, it has received £30,000 from Devon and Cornwall's Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, who has also provided a similar grant for a scheme run by Plymouth Argyle.

Ms Hernandez said: "It's fantastic that this football club and its trust is reaching out to young boys and men to help them find their path in life."

She said it was taxpayers' money well spent "because they know it's helping some of those young people who are causing the anti social behaviour where they live".

They have "troubles in life" but need need "some help and guidance", she added.