A DROP-IN centre for youngsters that was dogged with delays has opened.

Consett YMCA has spent 18 months and £22,000 turning an old town centre disco hall into the Street Cred Caff.

It was due to open early last year, but hit a series of snags, including problems with the electricity wiring.

Billy Robson, of Consett YMCA, said the project offered young people somewhere to watch television, listen to music or relax. Part of the hall is a community caf.

The refurbishment was funded through Barclays Bank Community Investment Programme. The caf will be open daily from 10am to 1.30pm.

There are also plans to hold discos and band nights. Mr Robson is looking for young acts in Derwentside who want to get some experience of playing to a live audience.

Any bands interested in performing at the centre can contact (01207) 502680