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In a bid to tackle anti-social behaviour amongst young people, an innovative project called “Fish Fest” has seen local teenagers swap potential trouble for the tranquility of the water. Organised by Police Community Support Officer James Powell of the Folkestone Community Safety Unit, the initiative offered an angling experience to eight local youngsters over two days, the 10th and 11th of May.
The PCSO-led project saw Kent Police collaborate with Folkestone and Hythe District Council, local businesses, and Golding Homes Housing Association following concerns raised by local schools.
Hosted at Coombewood Fishery in High Halden, the participants were introduced to the fundamentals of fishing and gained an understanding of the negative impact anti-social behaviour can have on communities.
This marks the first time that Fish Fest, which originated in Maidstone four years ago, has been organised by officers in Folkestone. The hope is that by providing a positive and engaging activity, the initiative will help channel the energies of young people away from disruptive behaviour.
PCSO James Powell of Folkestone Community Safety Unit said:
‘Events like these give local young people something positive to focus on, and the response we have had from the kids and partner agencies alike, has been fantastic.
‘Not only has it helped tackle antisocial behaviour, but it has brought the young community closer together. Watching connections be made through the event has been a highlight for everyone involved.’
Cast A Thought, which provides fishing activities as a tool to support mental health, assisted in the running of the weekend’s activities, coaching the participants, and loaning them the relevant equipment. The weekend also involved healthy competition, with over £400 worth of prizes donated by Angling Direct & One More Cast. Every child walked away with a prize.
Fish Fest project founder PSCO Kirsty Greaves said:
‘As founder of the project I am immensely proud that we can keep Fish Fest going across the county, the main goal of the project was to help the young community and to continue building the rapport with the police to break down barriers for the future.
‘I am glad to be working in partnership and alongside PCSO Powell and Cast A Thought to keep up the good work in the Folkestone and Hythe area.’