HOPWOOD residents are to meet with the council youth officer for talks aimed at curbing vandalism in the village.

Mr Stanley Vaughan, east divisional youth officer for Hereford and Worcestershire County Council, will discuss ways of setting up a special play area for bored youngsters.

Villagers are hoping to encourage children to build the playground themselves and take part in fundraising.

"Children need a sense of responsibility and if they help to create a play area then they should be less disposed to vandalising it," said Mr Lionel Springer, Alvechurch Parish Council.