Gerard has been working with young people for the past 12 years in various roles, mainly as an Outdoor Education Instructor based in Cornwall and working around the UK.

There has also been two activity days advertised through Trafalgar School, that consisted of free running and mountain boarding and a study support programme will be up and running on March 8th, in conjunction with the national Playing for Success scheme.

As there is currently no staff to assist Gerard with the provision of sessions, we are hoping that a youth programme will be set up in the Downton area as soon as this post is filled. The community will be informed when this happens. If there are any questions or queries please call Gerard on his works mobile on 07500 106690.

Environment Agency water safety warning

The Environment Agency is urging young people planning to go swimming, fishing, cycle or simply hang out with friends down by their local river over the summer holidays to be aware of the dangers posed by fast-currents, cold water, structures such as weirs and locks, and unstable riverbanks.

The Agency in partnership with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) has produced a ‘Be Safe around water’ leaflet designed to be sent to both primary and secondary schools throughout the region.

Nick Gupta, Wessex Area Manager for the Environment, said: “Each year around 50 children under the age of 16 drown. It is third most common cause of accidental death amongst youngsters.’

In June this year, 18-year-old Jonathan Morton drowned in a tragic accident in the Hampshire Avon river at Downton.

‘Jonathan’s death is a reminder of the dangers that swimming in rivers or the sea may present. Now as the school holidays approach children need to be especially aware of the risks.’

Young Peoples Radio

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