A group of Norfolk YMCA residents have created an album of their own music to raise money for the charity.

From designing the cover to writing the lyrics and recording the songs, the young people have taken complete control with the help of youth art organisation Culture Works East.

Sonya Dover, a member of the production team, was responsible for marketing.

The teenager, who has been a YMCA resident for a year, said: 'It has been produced to raise awareness about the YMCA and how they have helped young people who now want to pay back the favour and help the YMCA with more funds so that they can carry on with helping other vulnerable young people.'

The album, called Right Tracks, features eight pieces covering a range of music types from rap and rock to R&B and easy listening.

Sonya said a project focused around music was the perfect way to raise money for the YMCA.

She said: 'Most people can relate to music when they are having a hard time and can find that it can help them get back on the right track.'

Right Tracks was created over the course of 10 weeks as part of a scheme aiming to give young people not in employment, education, or training, a chance to develop skills on a real-life project.

The team was responsible for designing, marketing and launching the album – which took place on Friday.

Elli Chapman, director of Culture Works East, based in Norwich, said the group had worked with industry experts and tutors to gain an insight into music promotion and event management.

She said: 'Right Tracks has given them a chance to get their voices heard in the community, to participate in decision making, showcase their talents, develop life-long skills, improved person and social skills, and explore potential career pathways.

'Already participants are discussing how they might use their experience in the future, including becoming a volunteer at community station Future Radio, using it to gain a place on training courses, or going into an apprenticeship.'

The young people involved in the project will gain a silver arts award as well as boosting their CVs and raising money for a good cause.

The album is available as a CD or digital download.

For more information or to buy Right Tracks, go to www.ymca-norfolk.org.uk

Are you involved in a youth project? Contact reporter Victoria Leggett on 01603 772468 or email victoria.leggett@archant.co.uk