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Something slightly different for Wiv Chat #7. There has never really been a plan for this random Radio Wivenhoe series, other than simply have a chat with Wivenhoe folk.

Most of the charming guests to date have reflected on the past; this particular recording looks towards the future.

I was very kindly invited along (again!) to the absolutely ACE Wivenhoe Youth Hub on Tuesday evening. Each time I turn up, I can visibly witness a growing social group. The energy almost flattens you as soon as you walk in through the doors of the Philip Road Centre.

The occasion on Tuesday evening was for a taster session for the current crop of Year 5 pupils. Tuesday nights are all about Year 6′s and 7′s. Those cunning (and charming) volunteers at The Hub planned to catch the next crop young, ahead of possible returns come September time.

I planned another basic blog post - a few photos, a snatch of audio, possibly some video. But with so many positive things in place at the Hub, and with the potential to capture all of this this through audio, I decided to try and record a snap shot of the evening for Wiv Chat.

No planning took place - you don’t say.

I was simply allowed to roam around the Philip Road Centre (FOUR times CRB checked with FOUR different organisations before you ask…) and see where the conversations took me.

I can safely say that this is the first Wiv Chat in which I get to record a piece whilst playing basketball. I certainly hope that it isn’t the last in which I get to talk whilst being put through an impromptu ballet class.

The audio quality in the boos below is slightly hit and miss. I’m sure that the nice Head Honcho of Radio Wivenhoe will see to these, come proper Sunday evening broadcast time.

But for now, here is but a micro take on some of the truly great work that is being carried out at Wivenhoe Youth Hub. Sixty-eight young folk turned up on Tuesday night. Numbers are also growing for the Year 8′s and above on a Thursday.

But I’ll leave the last word to Crystal, a somewhat reluctant (but charming) interviewee. She was at the old Youth Club when it demised. She mentions how the only option then was that was that of “hanging around the Co-op,” hence she was inspired to volunteer and help out the next generation of Wivenhoe youngsters.

Hopefully the recordings below capture some of this raw spirit.

The Wivenhoe Youth Hub is now taking a six-week summer break. The sessions will return come the first week of September. Simply turn up on a Tuesday evening for Year 6 and 7 pupils, Thursday for Year 8 and above.

Adult volunteers are of course always welcome. I guarantee you’ll come out beaming. You may even get to try some ballet.

Blimey.