A NEW Devon youth club is urging the people of Chagford to come together and support its aims before funding runs out.

The Mess has been open a month and has proven very popular, attracting more than 100 people on its opening day.

Youngsters can pop into the centre on a Monday or Tuesday evening to play on the Nintendo Wii, make music on the computer, take each other on at the table football or enjoy the other facilities at the centre. But funding for the project is tight, and only lasts until October.

The centre is running a six-month trial based on its current funds and unless more help can be found, it risks closure.

Youth and community worker Wez Cutler said: 'We are looking for support to keep the premises open past the trial period to ensure that this venture is a long-term success.

'So far we have had a positive response to the centre and it has attracted a large number of young people and we are seeing new attendees each week.

'We hope that this continues as we look to extend our opening hours in the summer.'

Central Devon MP Mel Stride met Mr Cutler to give his support and offer help to find funding streams.

Mr Stride said: 'I wanted to give Wez and all at The Mess my support and I will certainly be doing what I can to help their aims, especially around funding.

'To have more than 100 people on your first day in a small Dartmoor town is phenomenal and just proves how much this centre is needed.'

If you would like to volunteer at the centre, e-mail Wez Cutler at [email protected]">[email protected]

The centre, at 70 The Square, is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 3.30pm to 5.30pm for school years 6, 7 and 8, and 5.30pm to 7pm on Mondays and Tuesdays for school years 9 and upward.

RIGHT: Central Devon MP Mel Stride enjoying a game of table football at the centre.