Top that! From nothing to this in just 5 months

May 15 2008 by Gareth Evans, Glamorgan Gazette

EIGHT mothers clubbed together to form a youth group after their children complained of having nothing to do.

And now, just five months after opening its doors, Maesteg’s Click Youth Club boasts more than 250 members.

Taking place every Wednesday night at the Christian Life Centre on Central Street, it aims to teach children as young as six necessary life skills and the importance of respecting others.

Group leader Diane Sayce, of Cwrt y Mwnws, felt compelled to act late last year.

“A number of children came up to me and asked me about a youth club so I got together with a few mothers,” said the 45-year-old.

“Myself and Michelle Hurley started asking around just before Christmas. There’s nothing in this community for our children.

“Youngsters were on the streets getting into trouble, doing silly things. So we just decided that maybe it was better we got them into a club and went back to basics.”

Mrs Sayce, a learning support officer at Maesteg Comprehensive School, plays mentor to hundreds of children as well as her own.

The mothers teach their young proteges how to cook, dance and play sport.

Sewing is proving an unlikely hit, courtesy of Click’s resident grandmother.

But health and hygiene are also high on the agenda, with children shown how to wash their hands and brush their teeth.

“We get people in to give demonstrations, like how to take care of your hands and skin,” said Mrs Sayce. “People from Maesteg do it voluntarily for us.

“We’ve even had hairdressers in to show them how to brush their hair. We’ve got every base covered!”

To complement four hours of youth club on a Wednesday night, the mums have opened a special spin-off dedicated to dance.

Such was the demand, the occasional dance classes have evolved into a successful group of their own.

“Six children choreographed a dance routine themselves, and entered a dance competition in the Town Hall,” said Mrs Sayce.

“They won through against other youth clubs and then competed against children across the country. In their category they are Welsh champions.

“They were over the moon, as we were. The club is so successful and is open to everybody, but we are looking for equipment.”

Click charges just £1 entry, with all proceeds going towards the upkeep of the club and rent of the hall. Nevertheless, donations are always welcome.

“I don’t want to disappoint the children but we are desperate for funds,” said Mrs Sayce.

“The club has gone from strength to strength but we can’t cope with the numbers.”

l Maesteg’s Click Youth Club takes place every Wednesday from 4pm. Youngsters aged six to 19 are welcome to sign on to the waiting list.