A new Lytham St Annes youth club has already had a measurably positive impact on the area, according to local crime statistics.

Youth Base, in the newly renovated Community Pavilion in Hope Street Park, provides a fun, safe and welcoming environment for young people aged seven to 14.

Giving young people a positive space to meet with friends and try new activities seems to have paid off, with the local police and Fylde Council recording a 50 percent decrease in crime and a 33 percent decrease in anti-social behaviour reported in the area.

There have also been absolutely no reports of any crime taking place on the park since the club opened at the beginning of the year, according to Lancashire Police statistics.

The club is led by AFC Fylde Community Foundation team member, Nathaneal Howell, who has 10 years of experience working with young people, along with community development worker, Kay Benham.

Sessions run on Tuesdays from 6pm – 8pm for 7 to 10 year olds and on Fridays from 6pm – 8pm for 11 to 14 year olds. The youth club is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office.

Tom Hutton, director of community development at the AFC Fylde Community Foundation, said: “Our Youth Base has been such a success story in the local community already so we’re absolutely made up. We think its success is due to young people taking a lot of pride in their local area and the park thanks to all the positive activities they can take part in.”

For more information on how to get involved with the AFC Community Foundation, please visit www.afcfyldefoundation.co.uk, follow on Twitter @afcfct or call Tom Hutton on 07739 796 101.