TWEEDDALE Youth Action, a youth group offering young people from the Tweeddale area a safe space for advice, skills development, fun and a sense of belonging, have decorated a Christmas tree donated by South Scotland Conservative MSP Craig Hoy.
The tree was presented to the charity by Craig Hoy and local ward Councillor Julie Pirone and was later decorated by local young people who attend the project.
Mr Hoy and Cllr Pirone visited Tweeddale Youth Action’s space in Peebles where they received a tour from locality manager David Hodson. There, they learned of the ‘Food Punks’ programme, a mobile catering facility allowing young people from Tweeddale to earn money and develop skills in cooking and customer service selling food at local events.
They also learned about Tweeddale Youth Action’s ‘Bike Punks’ project which teaches young people metal work skills and how to repair and maintain their bikes.
Craig had earlier visited Rhymers Glen Tree Farm near Melrose where be bought the tree and discussed the importance of local businesses to the Borders economy.
Craig Hoy MSP said: “It was fantastic to catch-up with David from Tweeddale Youth Action and to learn about the work of the group in supporting young people in Peebles and helping them to develop transferable skills to take with them on to their future careers. It was also interesting to learn more about the work of Rhymers Glen Tree Farm.”
Julie Pirone said: “I was delighted to bring a little bit of Christmas cheer when we presented the Christmas tree to Tweeddale Youth Action and I really enjoyed seeing the decorated tree that the young people worked on.
“The group carries out great work in the community and is a valued and brilliant resource helping our young people when they need it most. The work that Foodpunks and the food bank have been doing recently is amazing with great recipe ideas.”
David Hobson said: “We are grateful to Craig and Julie for providing this year's Christmas tree and decorations for our Peebles Youth Club- what a great opportunity to tell them both about the support and opportunities we offer young people in our area.”
Any young people looking to get involved in the group can visit them at:
The Old Corn Exchange, School Brae, Peebles on Wednesdays from 6-8pm for P7+ and Fridays from 7-9pm for S2+ (01721 724779) or
24 chapel Street, Innerleithen on Mondays from 6-8pm for S1+ and Thursdays from 6-8pm for P6+ (01896 208160)
