GHoPA helping young people “Get Hooked” on the great outdoors
A NEW community facility is helping youngsters Get Hooked on Positive Activities.
A series of lakes have been created on the site of the proposed Millennium Park development on a 64-acre site off Humberston Avenue.
The Hewson family, who own the land and are behind the plans for the 400-home development, have gifted 15 acres to Get Hooked on Positive Activities (GHoPA).
The land will also be used to provide other outdoor activities, such as archery and fencing, as well as the potential to build a permanent base for the group.
And, in the initial sessions of a six-week programme, ten young people caught more than 100 fish in a mammoth angling event.
All participants completing the six-week “Sportivate Angling Programme” will receive certificates and angling licences, worth £27.50 each.
GHoPA managing director Mark Fenty said: “The young people had a great time, supervised by our experienced and accredited coaches.
“It’s still early in the season and a little cold but to catch more than 100 fish when many had not fished before was terrific. They’ve all enjoyed relaxing in a wonderful environment. Fishing gives them a chance to reflect and talk to our coaching staff.”
The young people also undertook a litter pick of the public routes through the site beforehand.
As reported, the Hewson family has submitted plans to North East Lincolnshire Council’s planning team for the development, which includes a pledge to use half the site for community use.
And Ross Hewson said he was pleased to see young people were already enjoying the facilities.
He said: “It is a wonderful venue and it’s terrific to see it being used. We’re delighted to help out an organisation with a proven track record of helping young people and the wider community.”