Girls' Brigade England and Wales has received extra funding to expand their projects.

Alongside Youth United (a youth work coalition) Girls' Brigade (GB) has been selected to work on a £10 million government-funded project.

GB works through over 600 local groups based in churches, made up of girls aged between four and 18 who usually meet on a weekly basis to do activities and build relationships.

The money, which is specifically designated to set up new groups and encourage new volunteers, will enable GB to appoint five development workers in areas which have been identified by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG); Manchester, Birmingham, London, Bradford and Middlesbrough.

The aim of the DCLG in providing this funding is that it enables GB to increase the number of opportunities for children and young people.

GB Leader Liz Ball said: "Having a development worker for Birmingham is a real answer to prayer.

"It's a perfect example of God's timing as we're looking to develop GB's impact further."

Last Sunday Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Projects attended a special launch event in Birmingham, which also celebrated the work of GB and similar projects.

The event was attended by 17-year-old Katherine Davies and 14-year-old Charlotte Davies from 1^st Solihull GB, along with GB leaders Rachel Deaville and Liz Ball (all pictured).

Katherine and Charlotte said: "It was a good opportunity to show how enjoyable GB is – it's a great place to make friends."

Hannah Field, GB's Mission Co-ordinator, says "We're delighted that in providing this funding the government is recognising the valuable work that our GB volunteers and churches do.

"We're looking forward to seeing even more transformation in local communities."