A summer project for youngsters in Fishburn run in partnership with Moors in the Community has been declared a huge success.

Dozens of local children between the ages of 7 and 16 have been enjoying the introduction of Food and Fun sessions at Fishburn Youth Centre over the last eight weeks.

Despite Fishburn being a small village with many families away for summer holidays, almost 40 young people have been engaged by the scheme which was completely free to attend.

Sessions have been attended by an average of 20 youngsters where they are given the opportunity to get involved in physical activity and learn new skills that may not ordinarily be available to them.

Moors in the Community’s Matthew Arnell has been leading the sessions, guiding the children to play darts, football and other team sports – as well as enjoy a healthy snack.

“When I was writing the application for funding, they specifically asked that Matthew was involved,” explained Danielle Todd, a youth development worker at Fishburn Youth Centre.

“He has supported the Youth Centre before, and he’s built up a really good relationship with a lot of our young people.

“This is a great opportunity for young people in Fishburn to get involved in a variety of activities and we’re absolutely delighted with the response we’ve seen.”

The Fun and Food sessions are part of an extensive portfolio of activities being coordinated by Matthew – and his presence in Fishburn seems to have gone down well with the kids too!

“Because I enjoyed playing darts with Matty so much, my mam has bought me a dartboard for home and I wouldn’t have played it all if he hadn’t shown me how”, commented one.

“Having Matty here is brilliant – our football games are more organised, and people don’t fight and argue as much!” added another.

“Matty is mint!” said a final child.

Click here now to learn more about other Moors in the Community projects.