Ref. 29575-26 Catherine DixonLIDEN could soon have its very own youth club and community clinic thanks to appeals for help in the Evening Advertiser.

The area has recently been plagued by anti-social behaviour and the library has been forced to lock its doors because of children as young as eight running riot.

In an article in last week's Advertiser, PC John Brixey, the community beat officer for Liden, called for a youth club in the area thanks to the Adver, he has now had a response.

Catherine Dixon, of Austin Crescent, Liden, has offered her help.

The 30-year-old mum-of-two said: "I saw the article in the Advertiser and as a resident of Liden I am perfectly aware of the need for a youth club.

"These children aren't bad. They're just bored. They need somewhere to go and something to do.

"I volunteered because I just don't want to see Liden slide into rot and ruin."

Mrs Dixon currently runs a youth club in William Street, Swindon, and has previously organised clubs in Gorse Hill.

PC Brixey is also planning to launch a community clinic. Residents of all ages will be able to go to him to air their views and concerns.

He said: "I want to give the people of Liden their community back.

"I am not going to bury my head in the sand and say there isn't a problem.

"The solution is not just about kicking kids out of trouble spots.

"Elderly people who have worked hard all their life and are trying to enjoy their twilight years don't want to be plagued with nuisance teenagers.

"The clinic will be open to anyone and everyone from the teenagers causing some of the problems to the elderly residents who often feel intimidated by them.

"The more people who come forward, the more issues we can start to resolve."

The clinics will not require any extra funding as they will be included in PC Brixey's patrol.

They are set to run from Friday, April 2, and will be held on a four-weekly basis in Liden library on Fridays from 11am until 1pm.

For those unable to attend during the day, PC Brixey is hoping to set up a post box in the library where residents will be able to drop him a line.

He said: "With regard to the youth club, I want to sit down with all parties involved and put all our ideas in the melting pot and see what transpires.

"Having spoken to some of the kids themselves, I know they are excited at the prospect. I was delighted someone came forward as a result of the article."

But if the youth club is to become more than just an idea, both Catherine and PC Brixey urge other people to come forward. It is not yet certain how the club would be funded so they are appealing for people to donate either time or financial support.

If you are interested in helping at the youth club call PC Brixey at Swindon police on 01793 528111.

Emma-Kate Lidbury