IT was a case of going nowhere fast for one group of enthusiastic youngsters last week.

They were taking part in a static cycle ride to raise funds for the Chudleigh Youth Centre, and were pedalling hard for 24 hours.

In the process they have raised more than £500 towards running costs.

Cllr Chris Webb, a committee member, said: ‘We are constantly trying to raise funds. It costs more than £25k per year to run the centre, and it’s funded entirely through grants and events such as this. The money goes towards maintenance and rent mostly.’

As well as a place to relax and play pool and computer games, the centre puts on a wide range of activities for the town’s youngsters – games nights and cookery classes, crafts and sporting activities and dance classes. Children can also seek advice on serious matters which concern every teenager such as sexual health issues and relationships.

Cllr Webb was full of praise for the pedal-powered fundraisers.

‘The kids were brilliant,’ he said. ‘There must have been a couple of dozen coming in during the 24-hour session. They kept on cycling through the night – and some of those saddles aren’t built for comfort!’

The centre is proud to have remained open after other centres across the county closed in recent years.

‘We’re going from strength to strength and it’s all down to our youth leaders, voluntary helpers and the kids themselves,’ Chris explained.

‘We’re hoping to increase our opening hours and encourage more youngsters to join.’

One project currently in hand is making a top secret float for this year’s carnival, and the next fundraiser is taking place this Sunday – a cream tea at Rocklands Bungalow, off Station Hill, from 2pm to 5pm.

‘Keeping the centre open is vital,’ Chris said. ‘It’s a place where youngsters can have fun and feel safe.’