Young people invited to discover new hobbies at activity showcase

Young people in a Nottinghamshire town are invited to attend an event to discover new clubs, activities, and hobbies – with a chance to win exciting prizes.

Nottinghamshire Police’s free Newark Activity Showcase will take place at the YMCA Community and Activity Village between 10am and 2pm on Saturday, November 2.

The event aims to help young people explore new activities and find out what is available in their town.

It also provides the opportunity for officers from the Newark neighbourhood policing team to strengthen relationships with families, young people, and the wider community whilst also deterring anti-social behaviour through sports clubs and other hobbies.

The inclusive showcase will introduce young people to a wide range of activities that are available for them to join regardless of age, gender, or ability.

A selection of activities and clubs attending include ballet, brass band, baseball, archery, boxing, fishing, sea cadets, performing arts, and many others.

The event has been organised by the force’s Newark neighbourhood policing team and Prevention Hub, which is a collaboration between multiple force departments responsible for developing and delivering strategies to prevent crime and disorder throughout the city and county.

It covers a range of areas including mini police, cadets, and youth outreach.

Visitors will also be able to speak with officers from Nottinghamshire Police and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to break down barriers and increase trust and confidence.

Each club or hobby will have their own stall for visitors to sign up and try a demonstration of their activity.

Every young person who attends the activity showcase will be entered into a free prize draw, with prizes donated by each of the participating clubs and hobbies.

PC Emma Weatherhill, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Prevention Hub, said: “It’s really important that we use events like the Newark Activity Showcase to engage with young people and earn their trust and confidence.

“As part of our work to reduce anti-social behaviour we recognise the role of providing young people with opportunities to develop meaningful hobbies and interests.

“Offering young people in our communities the opportunity to engage with us positively is crucial to strengthen relationships and deter them away from becoming involved in offending.”