Eight young people have been selected to become involved in an exciting new project in the town.

The youngsters have joined the new Swaffham Team Activity Rebuilding Scheme (STARS) which will help develop their skills in communication and team building, whilst improving the neighbourhood in which they live.

The diversionary activities organised by the partner agencies will help youngsters to gain lifetime skills and tackle issues of boredom especially during the school term breaks.

Police and partner agencies have developed a year's worth of activities for the eight individuals aged between 12-19 years old.

The youngsters will be rewarded for taking part in community projects. Rewards will include a range of exciting outdoor activities in Norfolk.

The eight youngsters will also be given the chance to gain qualifications in first aid.

Swaffham PC Wendy Emmett said: “We are looking forward to running STARS in the town as it will give young people the opportunity to put something back into their community. Projects that will be carried out in the area include tidying up the town and helping to organise community events to increase neighbourliness. We hope that the youngsters will be proud of the positive work they will be undertaking in the Swaffham area.”

Dennis Tallon, Iceni Partnership said: “We are proud to support such a great initiative and believe that it will be beneficial to both the young people and the wider community.”

Tracey Baxter, Breckland Council said: “Breckland Council is keen to see positive activities for young people rolled out in the district, this coupled with community payback initiatives is a really great idea and is again another benefit of good partnership working.”

The partners who are supporting STARS include Swaffham Safer Neighbourhood Team, Iceni Partnership, Breckland District Council, Family Action as well as the Swaffham Town Mayor. Denmans Travel is also giving a discounted rate on transport costs for the activities organised by STARS.

To contact Swaffham Safer Neighbourhood Team call 0845 456 4567 or email sntswaffham@norfolk.pnn.police.uk.