A SOUTHAMPTON based youth project celebrated its first birthday with a party that was a showcase for talent at the centre.

There were drama performances and displays of artwork - including funky furniture created by youngsters involved with the scheme.

Manager of the centre, Kevin Allan, explained that Fairbridge has helped 180 local young people to get back on track during its first year of operation.

"The young people Fairbridge works with are outside education, training and employment, or have been identified as being at risk of dropping out and in some cases are completely outside recognised society. The aim of the Fairbridge programme is to develop personal, social and life skills. We do not believe in quick fix solutions. We believe in helping young people to help themselves and making lasting changes in their own lives," he said.

Fairbridge uses a wide range of challenging activities from abseiling to business projects, cookery classes, first aid, art drama and computer skills as part of a programme that is tailored to individual needs. Project worker, Dave Thorpe, said: "Through drama we hope the youngsters will look at their lives and their behaviour."