Monday 13 February 2006
Group shows the 'alternative'

A community action group helped to show youngsters ‘the alternative' during a day of fun.

The Wootton Action Group, a group of residents who work to make Wootton a better place to be, held the community event for young people last Saturday at Wootton Village Hall.

Called The Alternative, it aimed to show the range of youth activities available, as an alternative to hanging around on the streets.

Attractions organised by the group, which is supported by Bedford-based housing association BPHA, included street dance and drama performances.

Chair of Wootton Action Group, David Burraway, said: "Wootton is a nice village, but if we want to make it better we have to improve communication between the residents and help to bring young and old together.

"A lot of work is already being done to improve youth facilities and provide activities, and this event helped to raise awareness of the kind of things available."

As well as being entertained with performances by children from Wootton Upper School, visitors could also meet with members of local Scout and Guide groups.

Sixteen-year-old Tanisha Boughton, a member of the action group who helped to arrange the event, said: "I got involved with the group to help make Wootton a better place for young people. If there is nothing to do it just causes more trouble. The event helped to raise awareness of the things younger people can do."

The event was held with the help of funding by BPHA and the Bedford Kempston Regeneration Partnership (BKRP).