THE first meeting of a youth group in Crook was hailed a success when more than 70 children attended.

Youth workers from Crook's new Detached Project started their roles this week and held an introductory barbecue at the back of Crook Community Partnership's office, which was attended by children aged from eight to 18.

The team consists of senior youth worker Kat Bateman, 23, and project workers Laura Mellis, 21, and Michael Dixon, 24.

The project is called detached because the workers go out on the streets to speak to youths directly, finding out what their views are on the area and what they would like to change.

Their aim is to encourage young people to become involved in productive and fun activities in an attempt to curb anti-social behaviour in the town.

Mr Dixon said: "We really weren't expecting this many youths to turn up, so it was a great surprise. The evening went very well.

"We introduced ourselves to everyone and they discussed their ideas about what they like about the area and what activities they would like to do.

"The aim of the project is to get youths off the streets and give them something productive and fun to do.

"Boredom often leads to children getting up to no good, so we hope to change that."

The group has lots planned, including a paint-balling trip, a sponsored bike ride, a visit to Flamingo Land and the production of a "What is good about Crook?" video.

Andrew Hall, chairman of Crook Community Partnership, said: "It is obvious that there is a need for a place for kids.

"I am sure that a lot of good links were created over the evening between the youths and the workers. The project group can now aim to curb some of the aggression and channel it into something worthwhile.

"It is great news for Crook."

To contact the project, call 01388-765927, or visit the Crook Community Partnership office, 79 Hope Street, Crook.