By Jeff Hathaway

Over the past few months a football/training tournament has been held each Friday night on the astro-pitch at Les Quennevais, with up to 60 youths attending. During that period, calls to the States and Honorary police relating to anti-social behaviour in the area have reduced dramatically.
The tournament is organised by the the ‘Making a Safer Community’ scheme, and is run by Dave Kennedy and his team of helpers. Dave told La Baguette: “ The idea is to give the youths something to do on Friday nights rather than just hanging around. It has been great to see so many turning up”. Centeniers George May and Steve Pallett have attended on each Friday and both agree that it’s great to see youths enjoying themselves, and praised Dave and his team for all their hard work. They described youth attitude and response as ‘fantastic’.
Connétable Mike Jackson has also been giving the scheme his full support. As well as attending at the astro-pitch on several occasions, he also presented prizes to the winners of the first half of the league at Christmas.
Centenier May commented: “It’s a big well done to the youth of St. Brelade, and the Island, who have shown that they can act responsibly, have fun, and show the way to others”. Centenier Pallett, a keen sportsman and football coach himself added: “I have never doubted that given the right facilities, our young people can and will react positively to opportunities like this. I am very proud of them”.
It is hoped to run a similar Friday evening event throughout the summer if a suitable alternative venue can be found.