WIRRAL youngsters are being encouraged to sign up for a nationally-recognised proof-of-age card.

The Wirral Citizencard gives teenagers easier access to a range of products and services their age legally entitles them to.

It is aimed at the under 18s and as young as 12. Card holders can take advantage of a range of benefits including discounts at hundreds of online and high street retailers, 40% off Alton Towers and Thorpe Park and up to 17% off at the Apple Store.

With its distinctive PASS - Proof of Age Standards Scheme - logo, the card is designed to combat confusion over fake ID and novelty cards and should be recognized by a range of businesses.

In other parts of the country, people have to pay £15 for their Citizencard, but in Wirral they are being offered at a reduced price of £10 to young people.

And some youngsters who live in parts of Birkenhead, Tranmere, Rock Ferry and Wallasey could qualify to receive a free Citizencard.

Cllr Brian Kenny, Wirral council's cabinet member for environment, said: “Our Wirral Citizencard carries the national PASS hologram and, as such, should be widely recognised as a trusted form of ID and proof of age.

"We’d encourage anyone – regardless of their age – to sign up to the scheme, but of course it’s of particular use to young people who are most regularly challenged about their age.”

For an application form to qualify for the discounted or free membership, send your name, address and email address to tradingstandards@wirral.gov.uk

Further details about the scheme can be found at www.citizencard.com