Biking project stops hundreds of Walsall young people causing trouble
Quad biking and road scrambling have stopped hundreds of young people causing a nuisance within their neighbourhoods.
Frank F Harrison Community Association has provided a safe hub to at least 200 people at risk of causing anti-social behaviour or becoming troublesome school students.
The Walsall-based off-road motor biking project was able to support young people thanks to funding boost from the Big Lottery Fund two years ago.
Youth coordinator of the association Liam Perrens said: "The funding has allowed us to provide a safe place for young people to recognise their potential, increase their self-esteem and experience a sense of belonging.
"At our MotoX track based in Bloxwich, the young people take part in off road scrambling, quad biking, motorbike maintenance, ground refurbishment, health and safety training and marshalling at private events.
"These positive activities reduce the likelihood of them causing a nuisance around local estates, developing stronger relationships with local residents."
The project, based in Stephenson Square, aims to give young people aged from 8 to 22 a place to socialise and learn new skills by providing off-road motor biking activities.
It was handed a grant of just under £336,000 to support members through a 10-week course, which saw 70 young people continue to volunteer with the project and a further 14 complete a peer mentoring course.
Blakenall resident Luke Antill, who attended the course and is now a volunteer, was referred to the project by West Midlands Police after being spoken to several times for illegal riding.
The 21-year-old said: "I was hanging around the streets and riding anything I could get hold of on the canal path and local fields. I had nothing to do, nowhere to go and I was bored.
"Since taking part in the project I’ve stayed out of trouble and I now understand that illegal riding is really dangerous.
"I don't hang around my area anymore and instead I attend the project in my spare time to help others and share my experiences with them.
"I have also learnt many skills in mechanics such as fitting an engine, changing pistons, brakes and clutch levers."
