PLANS for a youth club to be opened in Flackwell Heath are gaining momentum after a number of residents offered to become volunteers.

In a public meeting, councillors and other community figures told villagers they planned to use Local Community Partnership to open the new club.

With enough volunteers offering their support, a management committee has been formed and with volunteers to be professionally trained soon a new club could be on offer in 2015.

WDC councillor for Flackwell Heath, David Johncock, said: “The meeting last month went brilliantly and we had a number of people come forward and offer to help.

“When we first thought about the opportunity of opening a youth club in the village, I was a bit worried people would think it was a good idea but there would be no volunteers.

“I was a bit surprised so many people offered to help but it is really good news.

“We had enough volunteers from the first meeting to form a management committee and although we don’t currently have a chairman we are hopeful that position will be filled.

“Now we need to focus on what to include in the club to make sure it is a big benefit to children in the area.”

Plans are now in place for volunteers to discuss with the youngsters what they would like to see included in the new group.

The youth club is expected to be homed in the Methodist Church and they are hoping to appeal to 11 to 16-year-olds.

Committee members are also hoping to hold a taster day in December.

What do you think about the new youth club proposal? Have your say by emailing andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk