YOUNG people have even more reasons to keep off the streets thanks to a grant from the Co-op.

The Oxford, Swindon and Gloucestershire Co-op has given Shakers, an alcohol free bar in Old Town, a grant of £350.

It will pay for the bar to be equipped with new furniture, a PlayStation Two, dance mat and games. Shakers in Devizes Road provides a safe place for youngsters aged 13 to 17 to meet and socialise on Friday evenings rather than congregate on the street or be tempted into underage drinking.

It is open from 7.30pm to 10pm and is described as a pub with no beer selling soft drinks and snacks at a small profit.

It has music and entertainment including pool and bar football tables and is run by a management committee staffed by volunteers.

More than 30 youngsters use the bar, and it is especially popular in the winter months.