THOUGH we represent different parties, my genuine hope is that Councillor John Buckley continues to work with me to provide better services for the Worcester's young people.

However, though I won't be drawn into a petty political argument, I have to address what he referred to as "actual facts" in his recent letter to the Evening News.

As well as traditional activities, the Worcester Youth Centre already has the nationally respected county Youthcomm/youth voice activity (including the online information support project run and operated by young volunteers) and a mentoring service.

The centre also has the very busy RAMPs project, which operated during the summer season - so that something is happening most days. Now, the building is being rejuvenated.

Improvements are in place to make it a safe place for young people, including those with disabilities.

His letter also criticised youth service workers, painting them as "demoralised" but government quality inspectors' view is that staff are well qualified and are strongly committed to offering young people valuable learning experiences.

Finally, the claim that £250,000 has been taken "out of the service" is misleading. Youth services are paid for from education funding - and readers will know where we rank in that respect. Despite this, the Conservative-led county council has increased the County Youth Service budget and last year made total grants of £250,000 to voluntary youth groups. This has allowed even more youngsters to become involved.

I don't blame John for the years of Liberal Democrat/Labour neglect - that's water under the bridge and he wasn't part of that administration.

All that I ask is that he and councillors across all parties help me to continue to make Worcestershire a better place for young people.

ANDY ROBERTS,

County Councillor, Claines.