A youth centre is due to open its doors with an inaugural week of activities so young people can "explore what's on offer and help shape its future".

The new youth space is slated to open on Monday (September 21) behind the Best Start Family Hub in Oakham, next to Oakham Library.

The council has described the centre as a space "designed to be flexible, relaxed and welcoming", with a medley of games and sports equipment on offer including multi-game pool, air hockey, table tennis and a boxing machine.

However, it has expressed a desire to leave the centre's overall tone, including which activities and opportunities are offered, up to its attendees.

"We've heard from young people that they want safe places where they can spend time with friends, feel welcome and have trusted adults around them," Councillor Tim Smith (Lib Dem) said, Rutland County Council's portfolio holder for children and families.

"The Youth Space has been created with that in mind, but we don't want to decide everything before young people arrive. We want them to come in, use the space, tell us what works and help shape what happens here next.

"Launch week is all about opening the doors, having some fun and giving young people the opportunity to see what's here. There'll be something different happening every afternoon, so come along, bring a friend and give it a try."

Oakham's new youth club (Photo: LDRS)

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Activities and events scheduled for the first week include an opening night party, a Lego-themed evening and a games night for Year 7 pupils only.

In addition to the imminent arrival of the council's new youth space, another youth centre, located behind Melton Road and run by Oakham Baptist Church, is due to be upgraded over the coming weeks.

Earlier this month, the church secured around £350 of grant funding from Oakham Town Council to purchase new lighting and audio equipment for the youth area, so attendees can enjoy music in a "safe and managed space".

Oakham Baptist Church senior minister the Reverend Tom Bowring said he was not aware that the council's youth centre would be opening later this month, but added that he and his team would be pressing on with the renovation of their youth space all the same.