YOUNGSTERS and neighbours in Parr are saluting the work of The Derbyshire Hill Youth Club.

Since opening in 1964, the club has offered a wide range of recreational and educational activities, membership is rocketing, and the club has worked miracles to connect young people and their community.

Youngsters can enjoy sports including kick-boxing, football and table tennis.

For children seeking an alternative there are arts and crafts or Zumba and DJ classes.

The club offers boys-only and girls-only sessions, and sessions for eight to 11-year-olds.

Especially popular is the Random Acts of Kindness project.

As part of a wider programme, young people decorated cupcakes with the theme of ‘loving kindness’ and distributed them among elderly residents.

The project continues as a weekly programme, boosting ongoing efforts to bridge the generation gap.

Nicole Joseph, head of St Helens Council Youth Service, said: “There were local concerns about anti-social behaviour.

“We’ve worked hard to promote a positive image for young people and to ensure Derbyshire Hill is an alternative for those who might otherwise engage in anti-social activities.”