Exercise classes to get Nelson kids off streets

6:25pm Thursday 15th May 2008

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YOUNGSTERS are being given the chance to take part in exercise classes in a bid to combat anti-social behaviour and crime.

The police initiative offers children from Bradley, Barrowford, Clover Hill and Walverden, classes in martial arts, circuit training and dance.

Funding for the classes, held at Pendle Wavelengths, Nelson, on Fridays, from 7pm to 8pm, has been obtained from RANK, a national charitable trust which aims to develop lead-ership and support disad-vantaged young people.

The classes, which are subsidised and cost £1, can accommodate 20 youngsters, aged ten to 16.

PC Anna Kitson, who covers Bradley ward, said the classes not only take children off the street, but also prevent them from being victims of crime.

She said: "Not only is it a diversionary activity which keeps people away from offending behaviour, but also encourages team build-ing and interaction skills.

"We are charging a little bit of money so the kids know they have to give something to get it back."

Anyone interested in taking part in the classes, which run until July 11, should contact PC Kitson on 07912 052070, or PCSO Caroline Hartley on 01282 472976.