OFFICERS from the Fordingbridge Safer Neighbourhoods team got together with the town council last week to host a ‘chat and chips’ event for young people.

Around 50 young people attended the Victoria Rooms, chatting informally to the officers and councillors while tucking into some free chips.

The event was planned to break down barriers and open dialogue between young people, the police and the town council. A short questionnaire was prepared which the young people were encouraged to complete, asking for their suggestions as to how things could be made better for them in Fordingbridge.

There were a number of common themes in the completed questionnaires.

Many asked for the lighting and seating at the recreation ground to be improved, to allow local young people to meet there. A cinema, or somewhere that films that would appeal to younger people could be shown, was also high on the list.

The town council will meet with police and other interested parties to consider how and if these improvements could be brought about.

Funding for the event was provided by Fordingbridge Town Council.

Sergeant Phil Raymond, who leads the Fordingbridge Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: “I would like to thank all the young people who attended the event for making it such a successful evening. I look forward very much to working with them in the future to make Fordingbridge a better and safer place for all to live, work and visit.”

Mayor of Fordingbridge Malcolm Connolly said: “The event was a resounding success for all involved and all sides benefited from the face to face contact.

“The comments about the town were all noted and a meeting of all concerned will be called to identify what can be done to action some of the ideas put forward. Personally I was made aware that although the youths who attended had most of the things that youths have today - phones, iPods etc, they still value the company of friends as the most important aspect of their leisure time activities.”

BLOB There have been some issues with youth nuisance and anti-social behaviour in the town centre and in the Roundhill area, caused by a minority, and the Safer Neighbourhoods officers are working with youngsters to try to find long term solutions.