YOUNGSTERS from a deprived area of Preston were given the chance to have their say about life down their street as part of Youth Express Day, organised by Greater Deepdale Partnership's Youth Task Group.

Police, fire chiefs and people from various community groups attended the event at Kimberley Barracks, in Deepdale Road where there were a range of fun workshops for children to described life in the Deepdale area.

Youngsters wrote notes and stuck them to 'graffiti boards' to get their messages across and put questions to people working in various sections of the community.

Some of the messages read: 'It's dangerous in the park -- there are rapists around' and 'Different races should mix more'."

Vicky Mossop, 12, from Walton-le-Dale High School, Brindle Road, said: "I live near Farringdon Park and there are no swings. It should also have CCTV cameras because I don't feel safe there -- I have even found needles."

Ryan Shenton, 12, who goes to Moor Park School, Moor Park Avenue, used his time at the centre to ask the police if they could have a park warden.

He said: "I live next to Waverley Park and I don't feel safe because it is right next to Callon estate -- people can get killed and raped."

Sergeant Peter Yates, from Fulwood police station, said: "One big item that came up was litter -- the children were requesting more bins and cleaner streets.

"They were also very concerned about older kids hanging around the streets and their behaviour which can be frightening for the younger ones.

"One of the main pieces of advice that we gave them was that they are the future older youths and should use their experiences environment for children."

James Fletcher, community fire and safety officer for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We want the kids to associate us with being their allies not enemies and it's not just about putting out fires but also prevention of fires."

The children spent the rest of the day learning circus tricks, making music, doing drama and arts and crafts and playing sports.

This event was supported by local high street businesses, sports clubs, Preston Borough Council, equality groups, Lancashire constabulary and Fire and Rescue.

Other organisations to back the initiative included the Circus School, Preston Learning Together Partnership, Preston Arts Association, East Preston Community Chest Fund and Education Business Partnership were also involved.