A local Councillor has decided to run this year’s 13 mile Bath Half Marathon to raise funds for his local Youth Centre.

“Trying to prevent these cuts to the youth service from happening has been like hitting my head against a brick wall. The Conservatives seem to be not for turning.

As a local Councillor I very much believe in a hands-on approach to solving problems and trying to improve the quality of life for my residents. The staff, young people and community groups that use Peasedown Youth Centre are no exception. If the Council isn’t going to provide the much needed investment in the youth service it looks as if I am going to have to secure funding from somewhere else.

I have thought long and hard about what senior Conservatives have told me – that the ‘remodelling’ of the youth service is adapting to the needs of the 21st century, ie the closure of youth centres and more detached youth work. I’m afraid I just don’t buy it! The traditional community base or centre where young people can go will always to be the best solution to meeting the needs of today’s young people. If you close youth centres of course you’re going to have to employ detached youth workers because young people will have nowhere to go.”

Cllr Hartley will be one of over 15,000 people taking part in the Bath Half Marathon to raise money for charities and good causes.

If you would like to sponsor Nathan you can all him on 01761 300522 or download a sponsorship form here.

This year’s event will take place on Sunday March 16th, starting in Great Pulteney Street at 11am.