Teenagers on a Feltham estate have teamed up with artists to transform their youth club.
Children on the Highfield estate worked with artists and youth workers to design two huge murals, which they painted on walls in the club.
Youth worker Mike Gower said: “It took us six weeks and the results are amazing. It was a real team effort with the kids choosing what they wanted on the walls.
“Before the youth club was bare with only posters and old leaflets on the wall.
“The young people always wanted to take more ownership of the club and their designs have made it on to the wall. You can’t miss it.
“One of the paintings covers the door and as people walk in they walk into the painting.
“It looks fantastic and everyone made an excellent effort.”
Mr Gower, who has run the club since it opened two years ago, said the centre plays a vital role in keeping teenagers out of trouble and offering them activities.
He said: “Before we opened there were only youth clubs in Bedfont or Hanworth.
“I know since we opened the police said crime rates have dropped on the estate on the nights the youth club is open.
“All the ones who do have issues are with us, so they are staying out of trouble.”
As well as teaming up with artists from Sky High to brighten up their youth club, Mr Gower said the group have a packed summer of activities planned, including trips out of the estate.
He said: “Since we opened we have always said it’s about giving young people the chance to do something for themselves, giving them the opportunities to think for themselves and take ownership of their lives.
“We have had young people come through the centre and turn their lives around.”
Regulars to the youth club said it was an important part of their lives.
James Blouddyn, 13, who lives on the estate, said: “I’ve been going to the youth centre since it opened two or three years ago.
“There’s a good community feel because all the kids that come are from round the area.”
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