March 2, 1979
YOUNGSTERS from all parts of the country are converging on Redditch in search of "paradise".
They come penniless to find jobs in the New Town but most of them are forced to return home disappointed.
Mr Ernest Bond, social development officer for the Redditch Development Corporation, has helped some youths.
However, there are already 50 per cent more young people out of work in Redditch than there are jobs available.
And the youth invasion could continue to grow, says Mr Bond.
"This is only just scratching the surface of the problem, a problem which the town is not equipped to deal with.
"Penniless youngsters are coming to new towns in search of paradise.
"They think the streets are paved with gold and more will come if the unemployment figures in Britain continue to rise," he said.
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