Leicester South Salvation Army Youth Zone Opening 8th January 2007

If you hail from the South Wigston area the Salvation Army Leicester South is perhaps something you drive past everyday and never enter. In early January the centre opened their brand spanking new Youth Zone to the community of young children and adults. The centre, it was clear had taken an awful lot of work to complete and had been month upon month in the making. The opening of the aptly named ‘The Youth Zone’ was witnessed by the attendance of all the people who made it possible and many a speech of thanks was given. The immense amount of voluntary work put into the Youth Zone really demonstrates what the Salvation Army is all about. The efforts of all those responsible is a great credit for what the Salvation Army stands for, helping others in every capacity.

When the work started well over a year back it seemed like the opening was an age away but it would have been a proud moment for all involved. All of the entertainment for children which includes a pool table, Playstation, computer suite, laptop and a projector for panoramic views for movies was donated by extremely generous groups who also wanted a hand in helping local kids.

The main aims of ‘The Youth Zone’ are to give youngsters a place to go after a hard day at school and maybe to unwind with friends and also to keep them of the streets at night, which, as all parents know can be potentially dangerous. Initially, the centre will be open until 5 o’clock after school on Tuesdays for the younger ones and on a Friday evening from 7 – 9 p.m. for teens. It will be a great convenience for local kids I’m sure, who will find them selves at a loose end a lot less.

“It’s great, I’ll be here a lot!” said Ryan Northwood, who was excited about the grand opening.

There was a local celebrity to cut the red ribbon. Gareth McAuley of Leicester City came along to officially open ‘The Youth Zone’ and ask any questions from young budding players. Together with our media assistant photographer Ben I got the chance to chat with a player we had seen a lot of down at the Walkers Stadium.

Bill Boulter, South Wigston’s County Councillor said “The wide choice of activities will provide the young people of South Wigston with another much needed facility. Thanks go to all who helped make the dream a reality”

With the opening of ‘The Youth Zone’ after over a year of preparation the future looks bright for the Salvation Army South Leicester and also for the youth of South Wigston.