STILTWALKERS and fire eaters joined hundreds of young people to enjoy a safe clubbing night in Ipswich.There was plenty of fun but a serious message too, as Ipswich Local Drug Action Group joined forces with Liquid nightclub at Cardinal Park to organise the special night for 14-18 year olds.
By Tracey Sparling
STILTWALKERS and fire eaters joined hundreds of young people to enjoy a safe clubbing night in Ipswich.
There was plenty of fun but a serious message too, as Ipswich Local Drug Action Group joined forces with Liquid nightclub at Cardinal Park to organise the special night for 14-18 year olds.
Mike Hill, manager of Liquid and chair of Clubwatch, organises regular under 18 nights so young people in Ipswich can have an exciting experience of the clubbing scene in a safe environment.
Ipswich Local Drug Action Group works with Nightsafe Ipswich to run the fun-packed party night as a way to raise young people's awareness about drug and alcohol issues and key personal safety messages.
The clubbers were entertained by stilt walkers and fire-eaters, while various informal drugs and alcohol awareness activities went on throughout the club.
A special VIP area was set up as a 'chill-out zone', with slick cocktail bar staff preparing delicious non alcoholic cocktails, and hair braiding and henna tattooing on offer to young people.
Meanwhile, in the toilet areas, life-size colour cartoon figures were used in a 'Body Draw' to prompt discussion about drug and alcohol issues.
Drug education and youth workers were on hand to speak to young people and offer information and advice on drug and alcohol issues.
Rachel Irving, Community Against Drugs Development Officer, said on behalf of the Ipswich Local Drug Action Group: "The aim was to work with young people in a fun way, delivering credible messages that arm them with the knowledge to keep safe whilst clubbing. We hope we can work with the clubs again in the future."
Clubbers are being urged to 'Make your night a good one' by remembering three key safety messages:
· Friends stay together
· Don't over do it
· Get home safe
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