New centre is the place to be (From Barry And District News)

New centre is the place to be

BARRY teenagers looking for somewhere to hang out could have found the perfect place.

The newly refurbished St Francis Millennium Centre on Park Road has opened its doors to young people and invited them to have their say about the new hall.

The first meeting was held on Thursday March 7. Marya Thomas from the Community Centre's Committee said: "We had a good turn out. Mike Bendell, Project Co-ordinator for the Vibe came along with a few facilitators."

The facilitators are young people who work with the Vibe. They offer advice to people their own age who may feel awkward talking to an adult.

Mike Bendell said: "Vibe are pleased to offer the facilitators to help the committee start working with young people and survey their needs. The evening was well attended."

Thomas Nethercott went to the evening. He said: "The hall has great potential if people make an effort to support it."

Marya added: "We want young people living locally to know it's here for them."

There was an added bonus for the centre after the News printed a letter from a Barry resident. Dorothy Dodd of the West End gave a National Panasonic flatbed radio, record player and tape deck, complete with two speakers to the group. Dorothy got her son-in-law Nigel Leigh to drop the music system to the centre on Tuesday, March 12.

Marya added: "We have just started our group, and any donations people can make will help us out. This gift will provide many happy hours for the children who use the St Francis Centre, and we thank Mrs Dodd for her generosity."

St Francis Millennium Centre is open for eight to 11-year olds on Thursdays between 6.15pm and 7.45pm. 12 to 17 year-olds can come at 8pm.

For more information on Vibe telephone their information line on 01446 421555 or Marya on 01446 747160.