The Holsworthy Mission Youth Café, set up over ten years ago by young people following extensive vandalism to their youth club, is to close after a decision made at a recent EGM.

The café has been run by young people with over 1,500 youngsters having benefitted from the many activities it has offered such as summer scheme, residentials, junior stepping stones and volunteer training.

The original manager, Anne Betts has remained volunteering for the duration and key worker Nicky Badham has worked with Anne to ensure the successes along with Jo Parker (development and qualifications worker).

"It is sad to see its closure but funding was always going to be difficult in this economic climate," said Anne. "However, we need to celebrate the successes such as National Crimebeat winners, Devon awards for volunteers, numerous qualifications for young people who otherwise may not have gained them and not forgetting the first ball held in Holsworthy Memorial Hall three years ago."

Staff, volunteers and members past and present have extended their thanks to the town council, local businesses, Holsworthy Community College, the Memorial Hall and parents who have supported them over the years. Equipment will be donated to 'like' voluntary groups in order to comply with the constitution and the audited accounts will be passed to the town council to archive.

"It's been a life-line," said one member and a parent expressed thanks for the facility and sadness at the forced closure.