YOUNGSTERS and their families came together together for a day of fun as a youth centre celebrated International Youth Day.

Castle Hill Young People’s Centre in Tonge Moor had hundreds of visitors on Saturday to try out the various activities that were on show during the Young Person’s Big Festival.

These included zorbing, archery, a climbing wall and arts and crafts.

And the young people even ran their own coffee bar and had made cakes ready to feed hungry customers.

Angela Kaye, operations manager at the centre, said: “I think we had about 700 plus people turning up.

“It was very busy despite the torrential rain we were having. It was on and off during the day.

“International Youth Day was earlier on in the week but we decided to leave it to the weekend.

“A lot of fun was had by everybody. It was a whole family event to celebrate. We are open for the children.

“Everything is young-person led and it was an opportunity for parents to come along and see the activities their children get involved in.

“It just helps to bring the community together to celebrate what young people do and showcasing the work that was done.”

The annual International Youth Day began in 1999 when the United Nations made it an official worldwide event.

It is dedicated to celebrating young people’s contributions to conflict prevention and transformation as well as inclusion, social justice, and sustainable peace.

Castle Hill Young People’s Centre in Castleton Street offers provision for children aged between four and 19.

As well as offering play provision, the centre works with partners including Greater Manchester Police and the fire service to support children’s health and wellbeing.For more information, call 01204 338190.