A YOUTH worker from Northern Ireland has been appointed by the Salvation Army to offer specialised support to the youth and young families of Wisbech. The appointment breaks new ground in the history of Wisbech Salvation Army and heralds a new career for

A YOUTH worker from Northern Ireland has been appointed by the Salvation Army to offer specialised support to the youth and young families of Wisbech.

The appointment breaks new ground in the history of Wisbech Salvation Army and heralds a new career for 22-year-old Clare Andrews. It follows a lengthy recruitment process by Majors Rob and Violet Smart.

Born in Enniskillen to Salvation Army officer (minister) parents, Clare received the good news just weeks before she is set to graduate next month with an honours degree in Youth Work and Ministry.

Clare said: "I am really excited to be graduating soon after three long hard years of study and to be starting work with the communities in Wisbech."

"We are really proud to have Clare on board," said Major Rob who has led the church with his Wisbech-born wife since 2007. "She comes with high regard, experience and enthusiasm. This year is The Salvation Army's 130th in Wisbech and it is important that we do not rest on our laurels but continue to see how we can give back to the town.

"Wisbech has given us much support over the years by donating and buying from our town centre charity shop and the legacies left to us."

Major Violet added: "Our church has a mainly older congregation and our vision is to see a younger fellowship develop from Clare's engagement and dialogue with schools, youth groups, other churches and the people of Wisbech."

Clare originally aimed to become a speech and language therapist but felt a strong calling from God to go into youth work. She said: "I have always seemed to be around young people - my siblings, in the churches my parents have led and during my work experience over the last three years. For me, youth work is more of a vocation than a job and is something I really get a lot of personal as well as professional enjoyment from.

"Living in different places has helped me appreciate other cultures and identify with people, who like I have, had to get used to new surroundings and make new links in their local communities. I am sure this makes me a better youth worker that I would be otherwise."

The church is keen to hear from locals what they would like The Salvation Army to do in support of young people and families in Wisbech.

Contact: The Salvation Army, John Thompson Road, Wisbech PE13 2NF, Telephone 01945 461 416, email robert.smart@salvationarmy.org.uk