A new era for Kirriemuir youngsters has been unlocked with the opening of the Vault drop-in centre.
Volunteers have invested years of work in transforming the former Bank of Scotland building into a much-needed hub for young people and, after a good turnout for an open afternoon at the Glengate building, they are confident the premises will go from strength to strength.
The first step is to open one night a week, starting this Thursday.
Project manager Elaine Whittet hopes the ambition of turning the Vault into a seven nights a week centre will one day be realised.
“The reaction to today has been excellent, and the youngsters have made themselves instantly at home,” she said.
Among Sunday’s adult visitors were Jim and Meg Milne of the Attic in Brechin, a success story which they hope to see replicated by their Kirriemuir counterparts.
“We’re delighted to give the Vault what help we can, there’s no point in rewriting documents that we have already spent hours on, and if there is advice we can pass on then we’ll certainly be doing that,” Mr Milne said.
The intention is also to set up inter-centre events involving the Kirrie and Brechin youngsters.
Ms Whittet said: “The Attic have been great, they have spent 15 years working hard and know what works and what doesn’t so we are very grateful for all their support.”
She added: “This was an open day for registration and we’ll start off one night a week before moving on to more. We’ve a pool of around 10 to 12 volunteers and would always welcome more help.
“The more volunteers you have the more nights we can open.”
Kirriemuir councillor Jeanette Gaul joined Heather Kelly in signing up to the Vault committee on Sunday.
She said she was delighted to see the once derelict building fulfilling such an important new role.
“It’s something Kirriemuir has been needing for a long time and the committee have worked hard to make it happen,” she said.
“The renovations that have been done are great, and I hope the young people of Kirriemuir enjoy it.”
Anyone interested in supporting the Vault can contact Elaine Whittet at thevaultkirriemuir@gmail.com.