Actor's youth club gives kids 'a whole new life'

Alfie (L) and Josh say they get to make new friends at West Lavington Youth Club

A youth club gifted to a village by a late TV actor is giving children a "whole new life" they say.

West Lavington Youth Club, near Devizes in Wiltshire, which was opened by George Baker MBE before his death in 2011, supports about 30 young people each week.

Manager Joshy Newton said funding from BBC Children in Need had made a "massive difference" and meant they could support children to "feel like they are part of something".

"I love the club, everyone's really nice and I get to try new things," said Josh, 13, who is visually-impaired.

"It's been like having a whole new life for me and my brother," Josh added.

The club was established in 2007 by Mr Baker who noticed there was nowhere for young people to go.

Now it supports those from Year Four upwards with activities including games, cooking, music and sport.

"It makes us both feel part of something and I have made at least four more friends at the club that I wouldn't have in school," said Josh's brother, 10-year-old Alfie.

Martha, also 10, added: "I love my time here, I learn so much from others here, it also gives me a chance to have my own time which is great."

Martha, 10, says the youth centre helps her learn from others

George Baker, who appeared as Inspector Wexford in the Ruth Rendell Mysteries, was awarded an MBE for his fundraising activities for the local youth club.

His daughter, Sarah Pearson, now helps maintain her father's legacy as the club's chairperson.

"It's just brilliant, we've got more and more kids coming, we now do three nights a week," she said.

"It's actually really moving. I know how happy he'd be seeing what this youth club can give children and how much they enjoy it."

Mr Newton says the youth club has created a place where all local people feel welcome

Mr Newton said the youth club had become a place full of laughter, friendship and light, which is "exactly what George wanted".

He said funding from BBC Children In Need had helped them reach more young people "and create a place where everyone feels welcome".

"There are parents who say if it wasn't for this club they wouldn't have anywhere for their children to go nearby," he added.