THE teenagers are up to something in Middleton!

They've been hanging about on street corners reporting pot holes, keeping an eye on elderly villagers and generally helping the local community.

Fed up with the fact that there was nothing to do one group of youngsters decided that, rather than moan it was "so unfair!" they would set up their own council and campaign for more fun in Middleton.

The village councillors were a little taken aback one night when one of the founder members of this new kid's council walked in and asked for better facilities like ramps for roller blades and skateboards.

"We were just sat about saying that there was nothing in the village for us to do and I said we should start our own council," said 13-year-old Sean Longbottom.

"The others said it was a good idea and we elected the oldest Sean Collins to go into the parish council and ask if we could have some ramps.

We talked with the clerk and she helped us write up a constitution.

We've had a couple of meetings and already raised £150 by doing a sponsored bike ride.

I've told a few of my mates at school about it and they think it's a good idea.

We would like to start our own youth club and get more things going for children like ramps and football and more sports.

I'd encourage other teenagers to do the same, it's fun."

Parish clerk Barbara Williams has volunteered to over see the new kids council along with a couple of parents and says she has been amazed at the level of commitment shown by the youngsters.

"It's not just a flash in the pan, they are very keen," she said.

"They've reported pot holes in the road, and been very community spirited.

They even went to one elderly resident who sometimes gets teased and apologised to him on behalf of the children.

They've done it all off their own backs and could teach us older ones a thing or two.

Teenagers get such a bad press these days.

It's great to see them making an effort."