YOUNGSTERS who have made a big difference to their communities in Southampton were celebrated at a special event.

The bash at the Southampton Sports Centre yesterday marked the 10th anniversary of the founding of the junior neighbourhood wardens.

In the past ten years since the city council launched the scheme, dozens of junior wardens have worked tirelessly to improve their neighbourhoods.

Among the initiatives they have spearheaded is organising litter picks, painting projects, graffiti removal and recycling and environmental projects.

City mayor Ivan White formally opened the Junior Neighbourhood Warden Games yesterday, which saw about 60 wardens take part in games such as Mousetrap, Hungry Hippos and blind man’s buff.

They were treated to a mouth-watering hog roast, took part in circus and tennis skill activities and football, and saw a performance of African drumming.

After the event, Cllr White said: “This group has been running for ten years now and that’s a real achievement.

“They do a lot of good work around the city and we are very proud of what they are doing.

“They do a wonderful job with very little money and a lot of enthusiasm.”