THE North Weald youth club, closed down due to shortage of volunteer-helpers, is being started this Monday (November 19) after two months.

The popular club, based at Queen's Hall Community Centre and managed by parish councillor Paula Etherington and local resident Andrea Kelly with financial help from Essex Youth Service, had been a permanent fixture in the village for three years.

It was, however, closed down in September after struggling to attract helpers.

About 25 children attended the once a week from 7pm to 9pm on Mondays club, which Mrs Ethrington says was an "excellent" turn out as all youngsters ranging from 11 to 16-year-olds were from the village.

Activities on offfer included playstation, table tennis, football, cooking and discussions on various issues. The club also organised outdoor trips such as boat trips, ice skating and abseiling with the help of youth leader appointed by the Essex Youth Service Jack Mace, who accompanied children on these trips.

Mrs Ethrington said: "I've had a lot of parents calling me after we stopped running it. They wanted us to restart it as soon as possible as their kids enjoyed themselves and had something to look forward to. But I would like to request people to extend their help voluntarily so that we can keep the useful facility going this time round."

Mrs Kelly, who is the club's treasurer, agreed with Mrs Ethrington saying: " We need helpers if we're to keep the club going. It's been a source of great entertainment for children and keeps them from misbehaving and falling prey to boredom."

Anyone willing to help should ring 01992 523825.

November 15, 2001 8:23