‘Joint vision’ for new youth group

It was launched by the Lord Lieutenant, Helen Nellis, at a colourful gathering at Central Bedfordshire Council’s headquarters on Sunday (October 5).

Members include, among others, the Scouts, Girlguiding, St John Ambulance and the Army Cadet Force.

The aim of BYU is a joint vision to improve opportunities available to all young people belonging to local groups.

It will also co-ordinate various activities and provide better communication.

BYU chairman Colonel Chris Sharwood-Smith – commandant of the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Army Cadet Force – said they were also hoping to incease the number of adult volunteers and the number of youngsters engaged in their communities, as well as attract funding and make better use of resources.

The Lord Lieutenant, who said she was delighted to be patron of the new group, added: “Young people joining these groups learn important life and social skills and share the fun of being together with new friends.”