Places are being snapped up for free activities for young people in Stone and across the borough during the school holidays.
Now parents are being encouraged to book up quickly if they don’t want their children to miss out on some of the events that are being funded by the Borough Council at Shugborough Outdoor Education Centre, Stafford Leisure Centre and Alleyne’s in Stone.
Emily Trotter, aged 12 who lives in Brocton said: “It is really good fun. It’s fun how you get to do four different activities and learn new skills. Plus, it is all free.”
The activities are part of the ‘Space’ scheme and are aimed at youngsters between 11 and 17. The scheme will run until Friday 4th September.
Young people have already taken advantage of the opportunity to BMX over an Olympic Style course at Shugborough or booked on for swim and fitness classes at Alleyne’s Sports Centre in Stone.
Space was originally led by police in Staffordshire during the 80’s and 90’s aimed at engaging with young people. The new version of Space has been coordinated by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner – and been planned and delivered by a wider collaboration of public and voluntary organisations.
Staffs PCC Matthew Ellis has pledged up to £140,000 to fund the scheme with an aim to increase skills, improve health and general wellbeing by creating opportunities to engage with young people positively. They include sporting events, arts and crafts and music production.
Borough council leader Councillor Patrick Farrington, said: “We already run a variety of sporting, cultural and leisure activities throughout the school holidays and the new Space scheme complements what is already on offer. A safer borough is one of our Council’s top priorities and this project is designed to provide children with some fun activities over the summer holidays in a safe environment.
He added: “I have heard parents talking about how they are delighted to see the Space scheme return as many can remember having a great time taking part in it themselves, many years ago, and are looking forward to their children enjoying the same experiences.
More information, including a calendar of events, is available at www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/space
