THIS month I would like to tell you about two projects called Fab Feb 2011 and Subway Deluxe 2.0 that the Wyre Forest Community Safety Partnership is funding.

Our analysis shows that anti-social behaviour rises during school holidays and that it can be quite a concern for Wyre Forest residents, affecting people’s quality of life.

One way to tackle this is by providing targeted activities for young people, giving them something positive to do during the holiday time, keeping them happy, entertained and out of trouble. Analysis shows that this approach is effective.

Over the half-term period (February 21-25) Wyre Forest District Council has put together a week-long programme of activities aimed at young people aged 11 – 19 years.

The activities include free swimming, luge racing, football, dodge ball, dance and trampolining, finishing with a party at Kidderminster Youth House and based on attendance, the chance to enter a prize draw. Free transport will be available, if required. If you would like more information or would like to book a place, please ring 01562 732970 or 01562 732917.

You may have seen the artwork in two of the subway branches at the bottom of Comberton Hill, which has improved this important gateway into Kidderminster out of all recognition.

Subway Deluxe 2.0 is the second phase of the project to give the other two branches the same treatment and provide long-term benefit to the town, improving and creating a nicer environment for residents and visitors.

Led by talented local artist Dom Dunlea together with some of the UK’s top urban artists, the scheme is aimed at getting local young people involved, giving them the opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, gain a understanding of graffiti and how it works in the public domain, with the result that graffiti attacks in the town are reduced.

If you would like to get involved and create designs, make stencils, learn spraying techniques and make your mark on Comberton Hill Subway, workshops for ages 16+ will be running on February 24-25 between 11am and 3pm (venue to be confirmed). Spaces are limited, so please e-mail arts@wyreforestdc.gov.uk to book a place and get updates, also on Facebook – Subway Deluxe or at wyreforestdc.gov.uk for more information.

The transformation of the subways will be on February 26 at 10am and everyone is welcome – just turn up!

HELEN DYKE Chaiman, Wyre Forest Community Safety Partnership