A REVAMPED Scout hut is proving a real hit with youngsters with its range of new facilities helping to transform a Worcester estate.

Drop-in computer facilities, a pool room, coffee bar and a new multi-purpose hall now greet visitors at the 18th Worcester Scout hut and community centre in Medway Road.

A £200,000 investment was ploughed into converting the wooden hut into a state-of-the-art centre, with a skateboard park, basketball court and children's playground outside.

Although some building work is still continuing, senior youth worker, Victoria Cooper, believes the club is already thriving and is helping to change the face of Ronkswood.

Really popular

"We've only been open around six weeks. Forty-five children have become members of the junior club and we've only enough room each evening for 30 so it has proved really popular," she said.

"We've had football and badminton matches, have computer drop-in groups and the skate ramps have been really well used.

"It has given the kids something to do and to really enjoy on the evening, so it's already making a real difference in the community."

The money, which was secured through the National Lottery Community Fund, has financed the building project and secured the appointment of two youth workers to create and run projects for the Ronkswood area.

Worcester City Council also agreed to fund and create the toddlers' playground, which is now nearing completion.

The junior club, run with the help of volunteers takes place on Mondays and Thursdays, between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.

Miss Cooper said a drama and mosaic club were the latest additions to its growing range of activities and there were plans to create a senior club for children between 11 to 16.

Anyone interested in volunteering or wanting further information on the clubs should call Victoria Cooper on 01905 769803.