MORE than 2,000 people from Chorley and the surrounding areas gathered on May 5 to celebrate the official opening of Chorley’s brand new Inspire Youth Zone.

The official opening, which had a fun fiesta theme, offered young people, residents, family and friends the opportunity to see what is on offer for young people at the new £4.8million Youth Zone on Chapel Street in the centre of the town.

Taking part in the official opening celebrations were special guests, Chorley-born Joshua Charnley who plays rugby league for Warrington Wolves and British Super Light Weight Champion, Jack Catterall, who were impressed with the wide-range of quality activities for young people.

Guests were given tours and could experience first-hand the amazing facilities available to young people including an indoor climbing wall, underground 3G kick pitch, two court sports hall, music room with recording studio, fully equipped gym, art room, dance studio, training kitchen, boxing studio and much more.

Now officially open, young people aged 8-19 and up to 25 for those with a disability can access over 20 activities per night at Inspire, costing them just £5 per year and 50p per visit.

Registered charity Inspire Youth Zone, is being run in partnership with Chorley Council, Lancashire County Council, The Arts Partnership and OnSide Youth Zones and is supported by a number of valued Founder Patrons.

The Youth Zone needs the support of Founder Patrons, a network of local businesses and philanthropists, who wish to support the charity’s aim to inspire young people to lead healthier, happier, more aspirational lives.

Chairman of Inspire Youth Zone, Andrew Turner said “As Chairman of this life-changing charity I could not be prouder to see Inspire Youth Zone open officially today.

Playing a part in the Inspire Youth Zone story has been one of the most exciting journeys of my life, and I know this is just the start of even more great things to come!

All of Chorley’s young people regardless of their background, now have the opportunity to try new and exciting activities, meet new friends and find the support they may need thanks to this pioneering charity.

I’d like to say thank you to all of the people and organisations who have made today possible, it is thanks to our valued supporters that Chorley’s young people now have a safe and inspiring place to achieve their full potential and most importantly, have lots of fun!”

Chris Sinnott, Deputy Chief Executive at Chorley Council said: “We are extremely excited that Chorley’s brand new Youth Zone, Inspire, is now open for young people to enjoy.

“We’ve fully supported the development of the Youth Zone and it will be a great asset to Chorley and young people in the area.

“Inspire is a place where young people can meet new friends, participate in new activities and talk to volunteers and staff for advice in a first-rate facility.

“The facilities in the youth zone are fantastic and we hope that plenty of young people will get involved and enjoy what is on offer.”

County Councillor Susie Charles, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, said: “

“I’m delighted that this fantastic facility is now officially open and can be enjoyed by young people in the area.

“It has been years in the making and I’m incredibly impressed by the amazing building, and the variety of activities that are on offer.

“I know that this is just the beginning and the lives of so many young people will be enriched by it.”

If you’re feeling inspired by Chorley’s new Youth Zone and want to support this life changing charity or become a member please visit www.inspireyouthzone.org