Gallery: Uttlesford Youth Team fun day proves to be a big hit

RAIN and thunder couldn t dampen the Uttlesford Youth Team s first-ever fun day. The multi-agency, six-hour event – led by UYT police team officers –held on Saffron Walden Common on Friday drew over 1000 young people. Based around the police s 2Smart road

RAIN and thunder couldn't dampen the Uttlesford Youth Team's first-ever fun day.

The multi-agency, six-hour event - led by UYT police team officers -held on Saffron Walden Common on Friday drew over 1000 young people. Based around the police's 2Smart road show, the day was aimed at 11 to 19 year olds.

Entertainment included football tournaments, karaoke, circus, climbing wall, bouncy castle, bungee run and a rodeo.

It also drew some more serious attractions. Essex Police's crime prevention stand offered advice on all aspects of personal safety, an NHS West Essex stand dealt with issues of sexual health, Action 4 Men offered support about gay sex and ways to deal with homophobia, and staff from Lord Butler Leisure Centre carried out fitness assessments and gave advice about how to keep fit.

Pc Lisa Cox, of UYT, said: "The aim of the day was to try to engage with the young people on a more friendly level.

"But, although it was a fun day, those who attended also learned some stuff as well, whether it was about internet safety or personal health.

"Another really positive response from the event was the treasure hunt. We had around 60 youngsters taking part, who had to engage with each agency to win their prize. We also had 10 more people join up to our Facebook, which is a great way of accessing our team and finding out about new legislation that affects them."

Pc Cox added: "We'd like to say a big thank you to all the other agencies. Although this was a police-led initiative, it wouldn't have been possible without the help of the other organisations involved.

"This is the first time we've run anything like this and it is definitely something we'll be looking to do again.