WIRRAL'S state-of-the art youth facility The Hive celebrated it's first birthday by awarding young members who have benefitted from the hub.

The event highlighted the impact the facility has had on the self-confidence, ambitions and prospects of youngsters from across Wirral who visit The Hive.

After opening it's doors in April 2017, The Hive now caters to thousands of members aged between eight to 19 and up to 25 for those with disabilities.

Since The Hive launched, there have been more than 80,000 visits from young people and has provided more than 2,000 of open access youth work.

Volunteers there have also given nearly 12,000 hours of their time to help deliver the facility's offering to youngsters.

Chief executive at The Hive, Stuart Barnes said: “It has been a tremendous first year for us, having exceeded all aims and expectations that we set out with back in 2017.

"In just one year, The Hive has become a model of voluntary and private sector collaboration, exerting a positive influence on its Members, supporters and the wider community too.

“We know that The Hive, which is 50% funded by local businesses, 40% funded by the local authority and 10% funded by membership fees, is achieving what it set out to do and providing vital services for Wirral’s young generation.

“Like the rest of the Youth Zone network we want to be a force for good and a big part of what we do is diverting children and young people away from crime and anti-social behaviour.

"It’s something I had the privilege of talking to the Home Office about recently, as an Onside representative, and I hope our input will help to shape Government policy going forward.

“Right now though, our birthday celebrations provide us with an opportunity to come together and give recognition to the achievements of our team, volunteers and, most importantly, the young people who are the centre of The Hive community.

"Many of our Members have overcome major obstacles and challenges during their time with us and have become an inspiration for others around them.”

Located in Birkenhead and part of the Onside Youth Zones network, The Hive has already had a positive impact on anti-social behaviour, which has been recognised by local shop-keepers and Merseyside Police.

15-year-old member, Craig Wockenforth, who won the Special Recognition accolade at the awards ceremony said: “I came to the Hive to get me off the streets, stop me fighting and get me involved in lots of activities that I enjoy.

"The Hive means a lot to me- it gives me a voice and a place to go.

"The team here challenges and educates me, teaching me that actions have consequences and how to be a better person.”

The Hive’s first birthday celebrations took place across three nights, with three events dedicated to thanking the Youth Zone’s patrons and supporters, along with its volunteers and young Members.