A YOUTH club for deaf and hearing-impaired youngsters has been launched.

The service is a first for Harrow and organisers are hoping HITS Hearing Impaired Teenagers will be a success.

Approximately 14 per cent of the population has some form of hearing difficulty and Hatch End councillor, Adrian Knowles, who was born into a deaf family, has been campaigning for more services.

"The opening of this club shows Harrow's commitment to offering deaf people and those with hearing difficulties greater opportunities," he said.

The club, run on Saturdays between 11am and 2pm at Pinner Youth and Community Centre in Chapel Lane, offers sports, pool, videos, arts, drama and day trips for those aged between 12 and 18 who are either deaf or hearing-impaired.

Members can also bring their hearing friends to participate.

For further information, contact the club on 8868 4204.