A NEW youth cafe has received a financial boost from a village bypass campaign group.

The management committee and volunteers of Long Stratton Youth Caf� received a visit from two members of the Long Stratton Bypass Committee last week.

David Thornton and Alison Thomas presented a cheque for �264.18, which was raised and donated to the bypass committee by local residents. The lobby group was started in 1997, but has not done any active campaigning for the last year or so and the committee decided that the money should be put to community use rather than sitting dormant in a bank account.

Mrs Thomas said: 'Supporting the newly set up youth caf� seemed the perfect solution as the money can be put to good use for the benefit of the young people. It is fantastic to see so many young people here which is a clear indication of the need for a venue such as this'.

The youth cafe, at the Methodist Church in Manor Road, opened its doors on January 25.

Organisers said that so far, it has proved 'very popular' with the young people of Long Stratton and surrounding villages.

Around 10 parents run the project and receive support from members of Norfolk County Council's youth services and the extended schools coordinator.

The club is open every Tuesday in term time from 7pm to 9pm. Entry costs �2.