YOUNG residents in Avening, aged between 12 and 16, will have more things to do in the village thanks to a new youth initiative planned for later this year.

Ahead of the launch,young people are being asked for their feedback about the type of activities and pursuits they would enjoy

While the village currently has a youth club catering for 8 to 12 year olds, there has been no provision for older youngsters and teenagers.

This proposal, supported by Avening Church and Avening Parish Council hopes to change that.

Residents aged between 12 and 16 are to be invited to the village hall for free sausage and chips in return for filling in a questionnaire and participating in a brainstorming session about what should be offered in the longer term.

Reverend Dr Gerald South who is the main driving force behind the project said: “It’s a really exciting project which is starting to gain real traction and momentum with the local community. We want to create a safe environment for youngsters to meet together outside of the constraints of school and home.

"We also want to promote in our youngsters a feeling that the community cares about them, and respects them: also that they have something to offer to the community.”

Start-up funding is being provided by Cotswold District Council via the Youth Activities Grant.

CDC Councillor for Grumbolds Ash with Avening Richard Morgan said: “I was delighted to support this project which is a fantastic initiative for the young people of Avening. There is little provision for youth activities in the village so I am sure the project will be a huge success.”

Chairman of Avening Parish Council Tony Slater added: "This is a wonderful opportunity for Avening to provide opportunities for our younger residents of 12 to 16 years old. The Parish Council is very grateful to Rev Dr South for leading the project, and to Cotswold District Council for supplying the initial funds.

"The Parish Council is committed to offering as much support as possible to ensure the launch is successful and the initiative goes from strength to strength”.

For more details or to volunteer or offer any assistance, contact Revd Dr South on 01453 834884 or gp.south@btopenworld.com.