Picture Ref: 77102-13YOUNG people in the Parks area of Swindon have a got a brand new dance studio.

The studio is based at the youth and sports centre on Marlowe Avenue.

And at its launch young djs and dancers turned out to see what was on offer.

Two years ago, young residents from the Parks applied for a grant to buy music studio equipment for their youth centre.

The aim of the project is to use music as a tool within youth work with young people.

The project will provide professional studio space for young people to practise their dancing and dj-ing skills.

Swindon Borough Council Cabinet member for youth services, Coun Garry Perkins said: "This project is invaluable for local young people and offers them training opportunities within a musical environment.

"It helps engage disaffected young people in positive activities.

"And, hopefully, it will help them to become more confident, and better adjusted socially.

"It will also support them to gain skills which can lead to jobs and careers in the future."

The project has recently received substantial funding from Parks and East Walcot Neighbourhood Renewal Company, which has enabled the studio to employ a number of qualified music staff.