Multicourt at Ninfield Recreation Ground

The highlight though was the official opening of the new multicourt which provides youngsters with the opportunity for constant kickabouts and games, and the perfect conditions to practice football, cricket and basketball.

There to witness the cutting of the ribbon were current Youth Forum members Jake Scott and Mat Collins as well as two of the original founding members Charlotte Perry and Vikki Champion.

The multicourt was the result of combined effort between the Youth Forum and Ninfield Parish Council with funds drawn from a variety of sources.

Costing a total of 35,000, the court was paid for by money from Awards For All, Local Network Fund and East Sussex County Council Youth Capital Fund, as well as Ninfield Carnival Committee.

Parish council member Sam Guard said: "This is really for 11/15 year olds primarily because they have no facilities. When we set up the Youth Forum five years ago it was because the kids were saying there was nothing for the older age group. There is the young children's play area but nothing for teenagers."

The Youth Forum has also raised funds for a shelter in the recreation ground and a solar lighting panel, and is already making plans for a BMX track if a suitable location can be found.

Kaye Crittell, of Ninfield Parish Council, commented: "We want this area to be used more by families, so that the whole family can come to the recreation ground, and there is something for the older group, and something for the young group. Parents can bring their children along.

"They are really pleased - it is really well used."

The launch of the multicourt turned into a village event with local clubs turning up to take part such as the stoolball team and football team.

Chloe Saunders was raising money by selling balloons which visitors could buy to send off messages, while make-up maestro Linda Histed set up her face-painting stall and created fantastic effects, including one particularly lifelike facial injury. Kitty and Andy Gale were nearby running the Ninfield Carnival Committee tuck shop for those in urgent need of a snack.

Kitty said: "I think this is great and I hope they manage to raise enough interest for the kids to provide them with the BMX track they are after. There is a dire need for things for children to do even in the countryside."

Charlotte Perry, 18, is no longer a member of the Youth Forum but was there at the beginning. She is proud of her past involvement and

commented: "It's about raising money for children, getting more equipment for them, and taking them out. There was a time when everyone was up to mischief and the Youth Forum took that out of the village."