ROOM 13, the Devon County Council Youth Centre which supports young people in Okehampton, has recently had its garden transformed, building renovations undertaken and celebrated its 10th anniversary.

To celebrate and say thank you to all those who have supported, invested and helped, Room 13 are hosting a special open event on Saturday, September 24 open from noon until 2pm.

Room 13 has received support and funding from Okehampton Town Council, DCH with West Devon Homes and Glendale in order to create a new and positive garden space.

Fiona Bush, area youth worker for Okehampton, said: ‘The event will be a celebration of the garden works. We want to say thanks to the local community, benefactors and everyone else involved for their support. We want to thank all those who have supported us over the last 10 years which includes the Okehampton United Charity who have been a huge support to our Centre and we want to celebrate the achievements of some of our young people too.’

At the event there will be certificates awarded to some of the young members who have achieved commendable things this year, including certificates for cookery and taking more responsibility during sessions by acting as Senior Members and completing their training.

Fiona added: ‘Thanks to the support and investment from Devon County Council and our Devon Youth Service senior management team we have been able to renovate Room 13, including a new kitchen, coffee bar and garden!’

Youth members known as the Voice and Influence Group helped to design and create the new garden with the support of Devon Youth Services community worker Caroline Down and Richard Archibald and his team from Glendale. The youngsters were provided tyres which they were able to graffiti and turn into plant holders by Tavistock Tyre and Exhaust Centre.

Mole Avon also generously donated £50 towards materials which are to be purchased from the premises for the garden remake.

Operating as a multi agency building, Room 13 facilitates the work of a number of agencies in the area, including the Youth Offending Team and Young Devon.

Room 13 offers open access youth provision sessions for young people aged 11-19 and strives to provide targeted support and guidance for young people in the local area.