Update on Village Youth Project

Subsequent to our appeal in the December issue of the Newsletter we were heartened by a very positive response from local teenagers and volunteers, helped by Chris Pape, the Wokingham District Council street worker, writes Parish Council chairman Jan Martin.

A meeting was held to allow everyone to discuss issues of concern - the main frustration for teenagers is that there is nowhere in Hurst for them to meet. A shelter would probably be most suitable, and we have looked into the design and costs of such a building. These were discussed at a meeting on 6 February.

The other suggestion made was to hire the JAC van, a mobile youth centre, once a fortnight. Teenagers had enjoyed this facility when it was available on two occasions last summer. The van is currently being refurbished and the Parish Council will investigate the possibility of it coming to Hurst for a trial period to see if local 11 - 17 year old teenagers would be interested in using it. Adult volunteers will also be required to help plan and run these sessions. Anyone interested in helping this very worthwhile project should contact Jan Martin on 0118 934 xxxx.