AROUND 100 church youth leaders attended the Bishop of Exeter?s first youth work conference in ten years on Saturday.

The event in Exeter, hosted by the Rev Michael Langrish and members of the Diocese Young Synod, was deemed a great success.

Research in 2001 concluded that work with children and young people at parish and deanery levels was a major priority in the church as the number of young people participating in Christian churches is rapidly decreasing.

This was the subject of the youth conference where a panel of experienced youth workers explored the gap between young people and the church and provided comprehensive answers to questions and difficulties regarding youth work.

There were workshops available exploring all aspects of youth culture and spirituality with practical advice on employing youth workers, worship and child protection.

With access to a vast range of resources from many national and local youth organisations, it is hoped the conference has raised the profile of youth work and youth leader needs throughout the Diocese and prompted further training on local levels.

There are plans to repeat the event in the future and anyone who would like to find out more or get involved in youth work can call Dawn Manton, Diocesan youth work advisor on 01363 773856 or email: [email protected]">[email protected]