Police have launched a new youth club in Telford which it is hoped will help to curb anti-social behaviour and crime.
Months of hard work finally paid off when the doors of the new Madeley Youth Club were opened for the first time.
The youth club was the brainchild of Madeley’s police community support officer (CSO) Ben Bates.
He sprung into action after youngsters in the area complained there was nothing for them to do and called for a regular meeting point.
CSO Bates said the youths were aware that neighbouring areas such as Woodside and Sutton HIll had youth clubs, and wanted one of their own.
The Madeley club, for nine to 14-year-olds, opened for the first time on September 16.
It will run on Tuesdays from 6.30pm to 8pm in the Aqua Room at Madeley Leisure Centre.
Friends
CSO Bates said: “The youths felt that their own youth club would help them keep out of trouble and make new friends.
“I decided to put an advertisement in the Madeley Matters magazine asking if any residents would like to volunteer to supervise at the youth club and if they knew of any premises that could be a suitable venue.”
He said after getting a good response he contacted Peter Beer at Telford & Wrekin Council to put the preparations in place to open the youth club.
The plans developed quickly thanks to a grant of £1,000 from Fresh Start and a £500 donation from Barclays Bank.
CSO Bates said: “Its aim is to give the young people of Madeley the chance to experience different activities and meet new people.
“It will also hopefully help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.”
Activities on offer include football, trampolining, badminton, table tennis, table football and board games.
CSO Bates added: “We very much hope to develop further activities. We also hope to invite guest speakers so they can give the young people advice and information on important topics such as substance abuse, career opportunities and personal safety issues.”
He thanked members of the public for their support, including the residents of Bridle Court who held a jumble sale and tombola to raise money for club.
