Breaking up boredom for village youth
YOUTHS in a Wear Valley village will be able to take more pride in their surroundings thanks to community groups.Anti-social behaviour has been increasing in Witton-le-Wear, and local groups including the Parish council, youth club, community centre and school hope that getting youths involved in community projects will stop them getting bored. Parish council chairman Bruce Henderson said: “This is a quiet village and there really isn’t much for youngsters to do.
‘They are bored, and as a result we have been experiencing some problems with anti-social behaviour. “We now want to give them something to take away they’re boredom. “Ultimately, we want to give them a football pitch and lighting, but they have to show us they can look after it.
“We have been planning to install flower beds and hanging baskets around the community centre and village. “If we get the youngsters to help do it, then hopefully they can take more pride in their community and it will give them a sense of ownership.”
The group has invited youths to a meeting on Thursday, June 5, at the Witton-le-Wear community to be given a demonstration of planting techniques. Bruce said: “The youngsters can also meet members of the police and representatives from Wear Valley District Council.” A car wash is also being planned.
