A long-running project for children in Shoebury is set to return after new funding by The National Lottery Fund.

The East Beach Residents’ Association has joined forces with Trust Links, a south Essex mental health and wellbeing charity, to revive the Dig It Youth project.

The initiative has been granted £9,396 in Awards for All funding from The National Lottery Fund.

Dig It Youth, a weekly after school group for youngsters aged eight to 12, was had been running annually for the last decade, but did not go ahead in 2024 due to a lack of funding.

The new funds will enable Dig It Youth to take place between April and October in both 2025 and 2026.

Matt King, CEO of Trust Links, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with EBRA to bring Dig It Youth back to Shoebury next spring.

"It is so important to give young people opportunities to meet with others, learn new things and have fun together in a safe and supportive environment.

"The transition from primary to secondary school can be tough for some young people and we hope that Dig It Youth will be able to help local youth through this time in their lives."

Dig It Youth is delivered at Growing Together Shoeburyness, an award-winning one acre community garden on Elm Road.

Youngsters attending the Dig It Youth sessions will be able to get involved in a range of activities including gardening, cooking, drama, crafts, sports, and forest school activities.

Louise Wilcox, chair of EBRA, said: "East Beach Residents' Association works for children, young people and adults in our community.

"We are delighted to be able to support this local project, which will provide an opportunity for young people to get together and find support in a safe, outdoor space.”

Trust Links is now inviting young people and their families to register their interest in joining Dig It Youth. Visit www.trustlinks.org/projects/dig-it-youth/.