The final group of young people to take part in a life-changing programme got a standing ovation on their presentation day.
The Princes Trust youth development group received certificates and made speeches at a special event at the Dereham Football Club rooms at Aldiss Park.
The last Dereham group to take part, called Team 191, shared stories of what they did over the course of the 12-week programme, including a residential week, a community project - the renovation of the garden at Sanford House - work placements, and team challenges.
Hugh King, the town’s mayor, said it was “humbling” to hear how the Team programme had helped so many young people turn their lives around and move towards employment.
Mr King said: “Everybody in the room is very proud of the tremendous work and personal achievements of both Team 191 and other groups before them.
“It’s with deep regret that this is the last programme in Dereham.
“Over the last few years the programme has helped youths overcome challenges and inspired personal and professional growth.
“The programme will be a big loss to our community in Dereham as there’s no other organisation who will be taking this on.”
READ MORE: Princes Trust Youth Development Programme ends in Norfolk
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service’s youth development team was commissioned to run the programme by the College of West Anglia in King’s Lynn, but the fire service has found itself unable to continue funding it.
Scott Norman, Norfolk’s deputy fire chief, said the service would keep supporting children and young people in other ways, including through its fire cadets programme.
George Martin, Fire and Rescue Service national liaison officer, presented the young people with certificates.
Team leaders Chantelle Williams and Scott Rudling were also recognised for their many years of hard work.
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