Bexhill's young people are honoured

Young people who had gained certificates through Bexhill Young People's Services and its partners attended the Redstack Playhouse to collect their awards from Town Mayor Cllr Paul Lendon.

Bexhill Young People's Services received 140,000 from the Big Lottery Fund two years ago to run activities in central Bexhill.

Tuesday's ceremony celebrated the achievements of young people since the project started.

Bexhill Young People's Services has received support over the lat two years from; the Youth Development Service, Hyde Housing, Rother Homes, Amicus Horizon, positive Activities For young People, Rother District council, Safer Rother Partnership and the Youth Opportunity Fund.

The ceremony was opened by John Izzard, chairman of Bexhill Young People's Services.

Guests were invited to Bexhill Youth and Community Centre following the awards to hear young bands; Safe 13, Tember Dawn, Arkadian and Silver Rush. They could also take part in circus, animation and music technology workshops.

Mr Izzard said: "It may seem inappropriate for someone who is visibly not young to say a few words. However, I believe that I have a legitimate claim to be here. Like many of you, I was brought up in Sidley and spent my school years in Bexhill. I have known the frustrations and the uncertainties of being young in a town which is preoccupied with the needs of the elderly.

"Many of us have used the phrase, 'life isn't fair' and, of course, life isn't fair - why should it be?

"Those of us to whom little is given have to look out for any opportunities offered which engage our attention, require our energy, can lead to a sense of fulfilment - however brief - and do not break the law or get someone into trouble.

"That is not easy but it is what we have been trying to do in Bexhill. I am pleased to see many of you have taken up the offer. I urge you to keep looking for opportunities. It is an essential entry to a good life."

Cllr Lendon said: "I think we will all agree we have got a lot of talent in Bexhill. They say there is not a lot of things to do, but the awards I'm handing out tonight are marvellous.

"I am very pleased to see so many young people doing so many things."

* Bexhill Young People's Service presently runs an open access youth club at Bexhill Youth and Community Centre, the 'Drill Hall Project' at Centre Stage, London Road, sports at Bexhill Leisure Centre and Pebsham Community Centre and a youth information drop in centre, also at Centre Stage.

Youth workers also meet young people on the streets offering information, advice and guidance.