More than 100 enthusiastic young people from across Bridport took part in an ‘immensely popular’ youth programme.
During the summer holidays, Bridport Youth Centre was busy with its Summer Club, which is part of a government programme designed to offer support to children who are in receipt of free school meals throughout the holidays ‘because school holidays can be pressure points for some families.’
The club was popular with children of all ages, including seven-year-old Tommy Mouncey, who spoke of how much he enjoyed the programme, in particular, ‘the obstacle course in the bouncy castle,’ and ‘gladiator events.’
Gemma Thorne, Deputy Youth Leader, at the club said: “Our Summer Club garnered immense popularity, with more than 100 enthusiastic young participants attending the eight sessions held throughout the holidays.
“Both the young attendees and our dedicated staff had an absolute blast, leaving us eagerly anticipating the arrival of our upcoming Christmas club."
Activities included sports in the park, and specialist youth leaders went in with creative workshops, including the Banks of Dreams and Nightmares who helped the kids design podcasts, as well as B Sharp who hosted an animation workshop.
Children who were not eligible for the programme also went along and paid £10 for the four hours of activities and a nutritious lunch.
The Youth Centre has its own professional kitchen, and the food was prepared by chefs who had been on a specialist course run by Dorset council.
A spokesperson for the youth club said: “Youth Leader Heather Marston has resigned from the Youth Centre following a period of illness, but under her leadership, it has grown it into the successful club that it is today.
“The range of activities she initiated is impressive, bringing in experienced leaders in music, creative writing, art, sports and exploring nature.
“One of her particular gifts has been her personal skills with young people of all ages which have been a central part of the success of the youth centre, and in her outreach work on Fridays.
“Heather also brought many troubled young people into a safe haven, an exceptional skill. She will be much missed by the many children whose lives she has supported during her 5 years of managing the youth programme as Youth Leader.”
The Board is advertising for a new manager for the Youth Club.
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