Winner of the Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2008, West Lavington Youth Club is a ‘jewel in the crown’ for all our surrounding communities.
The Club’s patron and driving force in its early development was the late George Baker MBE, and it is now supported by a funding partnership of the four Parish Councils of West Lavington, Market Lavington, Easterton and Great Cheverell.
The Club is privileged to have its own premises, The George Baker Youth Centre (attached to the Village Hall), paid for by grant and public donation. The Centre was formally named in George Baker’s memory by his family in January 2012, who also planted a commemorative tree.
The development of young people is important for the continued health and vibrancy of rural communities, and finding structured, safe outlets for their energy and creativity is vital. The Club currently has a membership of over 80 young people, and relies on public subscription and donations to maintain its viability. Outreach activities are also arranged by the Club’s volunteers in premises provided in adjacent parishes.
Staffed by committed, trained youth workers, and overseen by a management committee the Club is open to all young people in our surrounding parishes between the ages of 7 and 18. Opening for up to four nights a week has been usual, but recent grant funding cutbacks from the wider public sector have reduced this capacity to just one core night per week for the time being, supported by the parish councils. Additional opening evenings are now being arranged as other income is found.
Fundraising events are arranged throughout the year, and if you can help with these, or wish to make a donation, please do call the Secretary, Mike May, on 01380 812574, or use the Contact form here.
Many organisations meet at The Village Hall, which is situated just off Sandfield, West Lavington, SN10 4HL. With a car park and a separate meeting room (The Giles Room) for smaller gatherings, there is space to get up to all sorts – drama, concerts, wedding receptions, sport, jumble sales, and lectures.
More facilities are planned, and free Wi-Fi is already installed.
If you would like more information on the Hall you can visit their website or speak to the Hall Manager, Michelle Duckworth on 07435046984 or vial email.
The Hall is managed by an independent charitable Committee – If you would like to know more about how you can join in with managing this vital community facility, please use the contact form below.
