A NEW team of youth workers are taking to the streets of Crook to discover what youngsters think of their town.

The Detached Youth project consists of senior youth worker Kat Bateman, 23, and project workers Laura Mellis, 21, and 24-year-old Michael Dixon. The three started their new roles last week.

Miss Bateman said: The project is called Detached because we go out on the streets and speak directly to the youths, finding out what their views are on the area and what they like.

"It is early days and we are still establishing ourselves, but we have lots planned, such as a youth panel, a trip to Flamingo Land, establishing a new website and producing a 'what is good about Crook' video."

The project will also be joining forces with the Glenholme Youth Project, which hosts weekly events for children and teenagers.

It has received £2,500 funding from Wear Valley District Council's neighbourhood regeneration fund and the same amount from the Wheatbottom and Helmington Row sustainable project. The money will be used to finance activities.

Andrew Hall, chairman of Crook Community Partnership, said: "Having three dedicated youth workers, who are all local to the area, will offer a very interesting and flexible approach to working with youngsters.

"This cannot be anything but good news for Crook."

The group is holding a barbecue on Wednesday, behind the community partnership office, in Hope Street, from 5pm until 8pm.

Local youths are invited to attend so they can meet the new workers and discuss any issues they may have.

Ms Mellis said: "I am looking forward to working closely with the youths in Crook. I grew up here, so hopefully my knowledge of the area will come in useful."

If you would like to contact the project, call 01388-765927.