Putting kids on the right track
Intimidating gangs on Ossett precinct will have a chance to put their evenings to better use when a mechanics programme gets in gear next month.
In December, the Express reported on a scheme offering a lifeline to school strugglers and teenagers with behavioural problems by teaching them to build their own go-kart and gain a qualification for their efforts.
The scheme has now been granted partial funding, from UnLtd and Key Fund Yorkshire, and will welcome its first group of learners in April.
And the mastermind behind the project, Shaun Parkinson, of Motorsports Ltd, has been in talks with police about the possibility of opening the workshop unit, at the Junction 40 business park, a few evenings a week to occupy local youngsters.
Mr Parkinson, 43, of Birstall, said: "There is a problem with young people hanging around the town centre on an evening.
"They are not bad kids but some people find them intimidating – and maybe if we can give them something to do here it will benefit everyone."
Mr Parkinson said he will be looking for volunteers to help with the evening sessions if the idea gets the go-ahead.
Insp Sally Fryer said: "We are keen to support activities that will occupy young people in Ossett – and the work Shaun is doing sounds really good."
The main 12-sessioncourse will also give the teenagers the chance to learn joinery techniques and build a variety of structures, from tables and bird boxes, to CD racks.
Mr Parkinson is also hoping to get hold of second-hand push bikes, which his students can dismantle and rebuild, and then donate to needy children in Africa.
He said: "Lots of organisations donate their old equipment and I've already put in some requests.
"Donating the bikes to charity would really put them to good use and may help give the youngsters a greater sense of responsibility."
The scheme takes on young people, aged between 12 and 19, from schools and referral agencies.
Mr Parkinson said he will run an out-of-school club during the Easter holidays, starting on Easter Monday, teaching joinery in the morning and go-kart maintenance in the afternoon.
Interested teenagers over the age of 11 should call 07545 829043 to book a place.
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Weather for Wakefield
Saturday 19 May 2012
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Light rain
Temperature: 6 C to 10 C
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