Let's Go is all go

The highly popular Let's Go programme for youths between 11 and 13 came about because the community asked for it.

Research carried out in Bryndwr by Fendalton-Waimairi Community Board showed that well-organised and safer activities for "tweenagers" were needed. So the Board, along with the YMCA, produced the Let's Go programme - not a holiday programme but one held in school- term time.

It has proved hugely popular. The first session catered for 40 and there was no trouble filling the places. This session involved an hour of basketball skills taught by some of Canterbury's top players and then the 40 grabbed fish and chips before being taken to a Canterbury Rams' game.

Another session involved tuition in circo arts which provides training for buskers and circus performers. Yet another session taught kayaking at Queen Elizabeth 11 Park.

Coming up will be sessions on dance and aerobics, rugby training with some Crusader players, a visit to a Crusaders' game, wall climbing, pottery, Maori crafts, mountain biking, and skateboarding.

The cost to the youths is a gold coin donation and places are on a first-come first- served basis. There is a limit of five sessions, held Friday, Saturday or Sunday, and registration is necessary at the Bryndwr YMCA.

"These sessions give kids an opportunity to sample something they would not usually do," says community recreation adviser Kate Rathbun. The research also showed there was a big need for skateboarding facilities and as a result, the new skateboarding area at Jellie Park (Greers Road side) was installed and opened last month.

Contact Sarah Corkery (Bryndwr YMCA) on 359 6647 or Kate Rathbun, City Council Leisure, ph 941 6729.