A long-established village youth club which fell victim to council cuts is being relaunched tonight (Tuesday).

The Taverham youth initiative was one of many left in limbo when Norfolk County Council cut is youth services as part of a package of cost-saving measures.

Since the youth club closed in May, work has been taking place to reinstate the scheme which has been part of the village for more than 30 years.

Youth worker Kerry Johnson, who used to work for the county council and is now setting up a team of freelance professional youth workers, has taken on the project.

Miss Johnson, 35, who has been a youth worker for more than seven years, said: 'You only have to go to the skatepark to see how the kids need somewhere to go.

'The youth club gives them somewhere they can take part in positive activities, develop their social skills and become involved in the community.'

Taverham youth club, based in the youth room at Taverham Village Hall in Sandy Lane, is held over three nights, aimed at different age groups.

Tuesday nights are for the 'seniors', children aged from 13 to 14, Wednesdays are for the 'juniors', aged from 10 to 12, and Fridays are for teenagers aged 13 to 17.

At the youth club, the youngsters have the chance to play pool, table tennis, table football and computer games. There is also a tuck shop.

Previously, the three nights were not run by the same groups but now Miss Johnson and her team of volunteers will be running all the sessions.

She said: 'We're trying to sustain youth projects in the area. When youth services were cut, I didn't think for one minute that youth work would stop. For a lot of people like me it's not just a job, it's a way of life. You have to have a frame of mind for it'

As previously reported in the Evening News, action is being taken to relaunch the youth in Hellesdon which also closed earlier this year.

Costessey Youth Posse and Brundall Youth Club have also been re-established.

More volunteers are needed for the Taverham youth club. Anyone who is interested should email kjyouthwork@hotmail.co.uk

Have you got a Taverham story for the Evening News? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk