AN APPEAL has been launched for more volunteers to step up to help a Dawlish youth group.

Dawlish Action for Youth, which operates from the Red Rock Centre in Sandy Lane, is facing a ‘challenge’ to get people to become involved.

Without more volunteers, the youth club is at risk, organisers have warned.

Chairman Shirley Fewings explained: ‘It is a challenge as people don’t realise we are a charity and those of us involved are all volunteers.

‘We need trustees and parents to get involved.

‘Without them, it puts the service at risk if we don’t get people supporting us behind the scenes.

‘The youth club would be lost without people to support it.

‘The building was raised with community fund-raising and we rent out space.

‘It means there are great facilities but we need more people to help.’

The recent annual general meeting, chaired by the Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Lisa Mayne, was poorly attended.

As this did not meet the requirements of the Charity Commission, it will have to be rescheduled.

On social media, the charity said: ‘Sadly this puts the charity and the youth sessions at risk.

‘It is only through the efforts of our staff, volunteers, seniors helpers and the trustees (all of whom are volunteers) that the youth sessions take place.

‘We need your support.

‘It would be a shame to lose this vital service.’

Shirley explained that financially, the charity was ‘fairly secure’ but there were not enough volunteers.

She said: ‘Anyone interested in youth provision, we are very keen to hear from them.’

And she said some of the youngsters who use the centre have been involved in several events, trying to engage with more people.

Meanwhile, Dawlish Action for Youth has been chosen as one of the organisations to benefit from the Co-op’s Local Community Fund.

Shirley said: ‘We are one of the selected local good causes for the fund which is brilliant.’

Shoppers can show their support by choosing the club which provides a safe space for young people aged eight and over to enjoy leisure activities and learn life skills.

Anyone interested in helping the club can call the Red Rock Centre on 01626 864075, go along to one of the evening sessions held during the week or email [email protected]