A NEW national forum for blind youngsters has been awarded more than £270,000.

The Royal National Institute of the Blind secured the cash through the Big Lottery Fund to help it offers advice and information for 12 to 25-year-olds.

John Legg, director of RNIB Scotland, said: "This is fantastic news.

"This project will provide a unique opportunity for young people with sight loss from across Scotland to meet together as a group to identify what would improve their opportunities in life."