So far summer in Merton has been a sizzler for those young people in search of new and fun activities during the summer holidays.

With three weeks still to go, Summer Uni Merton 2008 courses have already proven popular. Young people in the area have so far taken on new and exciting ventures ranging from fashion design and drama classes to fencing and football skills.

The summer uni scheme was made possible after Merton secured a £66,000 grant from the Jack Petchey Foundation and the London Challenge through Summer Uni London.

In the remaining weeks of this summer young people still have the chance to polish their skills at tennis, learn the arts of capoeira, bollywood and street dance or even get together and develop the skills needed to run their very own radio station.

Councillor Debbie Shears, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services says, “This is the first time ever that Merton Council has offered its own summer uni scheme and it’s been fantastic to see the enthusiasm of young people in Merton who have jumped at the chance to learn or try something new.”

“The summer uni courses are an excellent opportunity for young people to develop their skills and pursue their interests whilst also meeting new people.”

To find out more about the summer uni courses in Merton, young people should visit the website http://www.summerunilondon.org

A variety of youth centre based projects and activities are also taking place throughout the borough during the summer. The council’s youth centres are offering a variety of trips, sporting ventures, cultural workshops, arts activities and a heap more.

For more information about the activities and projects available at Merton’s Youth Centres, young people can call the Youth Office on 0208 640 7050.