A NEW coffee bar has opened in Ross-on-Wye to provide fresh inspiration for artistic youngsters, writes IAN MORRIS.

Following refurbishment work at the Ross Creative Learning Centre, the 'AvK coffee bar' will offer young people the chance to take a break from the diverse activities on offer at the Hill Street location.

The new coffee shop is part of the refurbishment of the entire centre, which now offers youngsters the chance to try their hand at photography, video recording, and DJ mixing.

They can also sing, act, use the internet, and learn crafts such as pottery at the busy venue.

To get the centre up and running, Project Development Officer Marion Campbell has made links between the local authority and community groups, and admits to receiving a substantial amount of help from the town's youngsters.

"The children are taking a direct role in the running of the centre and have even changed its name to the 'Y-Zone'. Furthermore they designed the caf and will help to run it. It is a great opportunity for young people to get experience at working on a project and preparing for such a business venture," she added.

Money for the coffee shop was raised by a variety of charities including Ross Lions, Ross Rotary and the Basement Youth Trust, who were grateful to Margaret Pearce for her donation in memory of her late husband, Malcolm.