A CORNISH resort is bracing itself for an invasion of teenagers keen to party after completing their GCSEs. Newquay is the destination of choice for thousands of 16-year-olds at this time every year.

Town centre manager Guy Thomas said the students were frequently on their first holiday without their parents. But a two-week project, Exodus 09, launched today aims to keep them out of trouble and help them have a good holiday.

"It was becoming a major problem," said Mr Thomas. "Teenagers were being dropped off at campsites by their parents, who would often buy them alcohol. That would lead to all sorts of problems.

"They have finished their GCSEs and they want to come to Newquay to have fun. Of course, we want them to have a good time, but we have to make sure they have a safe time as well."

As a result of a clampdown on under-age drinking at the resort's pubs and nightclubs, large numbers of teenagers were congregating on the beach.

Exodus 09 is supported by Cornwall County Council, Newquay Town Council and the police, and involves a two-week schedule of under-18 alcohol-free evenings at nightclubs.

During the project, eight youth workers will patrol at night to offer a helping hand.