Dangers of guns and knives highlighted

The council-backed Zest Youth Zone has been popular over the summer months, with over 300 young people attending the five Saturday night sessions at the Valley Leisure Centre.
Pictured at the 'Guns n Knives Ruin Lives' workshop are (l-r) Alderman John Blair (PCSP Chair), Sophie Love, Debbie Taylor (PCSP Project Officer) and Constable Mark Hetherington. INNT 38-504CONPictured at the 'Guns n Knives Ruin Lives' workshop are (l-r) Alderman John Blair (PCSP Chair), Sophie Love, Debbie Taylor (PCSP Project Officer) and Constable Mark Hetherington. INNT 38-504CON
Pictured at the 'Guns n Knives Ruin Lives' workshop are (l-r) Alderman John Blair (PCSP Chair), Sophie Love, Debbie Taylor (PCSP Project Officer) and Constable Mark Hetherington. INNT 38-504CON

In partnership with the PSNI, Zest Youth Zone recently hosted an awareness workshop at the centre entitled ‘Guns n Knives Ruin Lives’.

The interactive and informative session was delivered by PSNI Armed Response Officers and aimed to raise awareness of real life events, and how choices can impact on our lives.

Speaking at the event Alderman John Blair, Chair of the Policing & Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) commented: “We’re pleased to be working with PSNI Armed Response Officers in offering an innovative workshop that has been developed specifically for young people. Run in partnership with local communities and delivered by qualified trainers, the initiative provides a session where officers share personal, real life events and the consequences. The workshop helps to get an important message across.”

The next Zest Youth Zone will take place over the Christmas holiday period. To keep updated on this and other council-run programmes, visit the Newtownabbey Borough Council website - www.newtownabbey.gov.uk - or email [email protected] or telephone 028 9034 0079.