A YOUTH group forced to close because it headquarters was so run down is set to reopen, thanks to tradesmen working for free.

4Youth shut its base in Tower Street, Brightlingsea, last month, because of a leaky roof and faulty heating system.

The centre, which put on activities for about 150 youngsters aged seven to 17 every week, is set to re-open in the next three months.

Plumbers, roofers and skip companies have offered their services for free.

It has enabled the charity to agree a two-year lease with the owners.

Margaret Tay, organiser, said: “We have been looking for somewhere else to go and didn’t feel we could go any further. At last we know we can stay there for at least two years, probably longer, if we can keep up the payments.

“It has given us the strength we really needed to go forward.”

Mrs Tay said residents have offered to help redecorate when repairs are complete.

She said: “Our main concern at the moment is to keep the building dry by getting an area of the roof repaired. We need materials for this.

“If anyone reading this has roofing materials they could donate to our cause, we would be really grateful.

“We are hoping this refurbishment will go smoothly so we can re-open for the young people because the cold winter months are approaching.

“We would like to say a big thank you to all the people who have already pledged help.”

4Youth was set up 12 years ago by a group of residents keen to provide a place for young people to meet.

It had sessions on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, and Thursday evenings.

Mrs Tay and her fellow volunteers were honoured for their work when they were invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace earlier in the year.

l Two fundraising events are in the pipeline to pay for the materials. An auction will take place at the club on November 19. A gig will take place at Bright-lingsea Regent Football Club on Saturday, December 3.

Further details are still to be confirmed. Anyone who can help can call Mrs Tay on 01206 303972.