Cirencester young people do their bit for the community (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Students from Cirencester College taking part in the National Citizen Service

10:56am Wednesday 22nd August 2012 in News By Ian Craig

TEENAGERS in the Cotswolds are doing their bit to prove not all young people are rioting yobs.

The National Citizen Service (NCS) is a scheme set up following last year’s riots allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to get involved in projects benefiting their communities.

Ben Holder and Victoria Harvey, who will be starting at Cirencester College this September, have got involved in the scheme, which involves groups going on a week-long outdoor activities trip before working together on a community project.

The two will be running a fundraising auction at Cirencester Rugby Club’s beer festival at 8pm on Saturday August 25 to kick-start their project, with prizes including a stay at a holiday home in Cape Verde off the coat of Western Africa.

Victoria said their group would also be working with Cotswold Volunteers to improve the surrounding at Cirencester Hospital.

“We are going to be helping with their orchard – clearing it up so the patients can enjoy it and hopefully we will put in a bench,” she said.

Other students involved in the scheme are also working to raise awareness of the issues faced by young carers in Gloucestershire.

A fete will be held at Cirencester College from 10am to 2pm on Saturday September 15 featuring live music, a car boot sale and activities for all ages.

All funds raised will go towards Gloucestershire Young Carers, a charity offering support and activities to young people caring for relatives or other vulnerable people.

For more information on the NCS visit nationalcitizenservice.direct.gov.uk