Redditch police score a winner with football scheme

Mar 31 2008

FOOTBALL sessions for Redditch youngsters have proved a big success after dozens of young people from across the town played each other in training matches.

The games, set up by police community support officer Mike Meredith and members of the Oakley Road Residents Association, have been aimed at four to 14-year-olds from Smallwood and Southcrest.

Youngsters play for an hour every Saturday afternoon at Arrow Vale Sports Centre, as police and neighbourhood wardens do their bit to prevent anti-social behaviour.

CSO Meredith said: "We have had very positive feedback from the kids who are enjoying the sessions, and say that it gives them something to do on what would otherwise be a boring Saturday afternoon.

"We have also been lucky enough to have kit and equipment donated by Redditch Borough Council.

"A big thank you should go to manager Scott Brinkworth and his staff for working in partnership with us, kindly donating the kit and equipment, and for allowing us to use their venue."

Rauf Shah, from the Oakley Road Residents Association, added: "These football sessions have given the youngsters somewhere to go on Saturday afternoons rather than hanging around doing nothing.

"Young people need to be involved in constructive and beneficial activities to aid the prevention of anti-social behaviour and vandalism."

Application forms for the football sessions are available from CSO Meredith when he is out on patrol or from the front counter at Redditch Police Station.