Village Groups

Teenagers in Aston Project was born to investigate the needs of teenagers in the Village. Many communities have the same "problem" that as children grow up, they express their energies in different ways. In Aston, they collect around the Church Lychgate. They are often boisterous and in some cases offensive and rude. They can be intimidating to many people if they gather in large numbers. TAP does not condone any of this kind of behaviour and the Police need to deal with any issues of this kind which arise.

However, the vast majority of the teenagers are normal kids with a need to enjoy themselves and talk.

Aston provides no facilities for them other than the pubs and public transport is minimal without the expense of taxis etc.

It is to satisfy this need that TAP was formed. Talks took place with the teenagers and the main requirement was for a youth club and a place to meet where they could be away from the Village. TAP has worked with the Police, South Derbyshire District Council, the Parish Council and many Sports organisations.

As in all these cases, the subject of the teenagers and the "problem" is pretty emotive with the Villagers. The Project has raised enough money to carry out its objectives, but the Village needs to be satisfied that the solutions are viable.

A Youth Club run by County Council organisers has now been run for some time and now operates out of the White Hart pub. It is hoped to get a more suitable room - probably purpose built by liaison with the Recreation in Aston Group, which has plans to develop facilities for all in the Village.

Again with the co-operation of RIA, permission and Lottery funding have been obtained to build a practice basketball court on the Playing Field. It is hoped that this can be developed and involve teenagers during the summer months.

Please give us a call if you would like to help with our initiative.