More than 1,000 teenagers across the UK spent Easter weekend at events designed to boost their social skills and confidence.
The Loud Speaker Easter Weekender saw young people aged 15 to 17 flock to six venues, including Hexham's Kingswood Residential Centre.
The centre, based at Dukeshouse Wood, was among sites across areas such as South Yorkshire, the Isle of Wight, North Wales, Kent, and Norfolk that offered free educational experiences over the four-day period.
Calvin Eden and Oba Akinwale, founders of Loud Speaker, joined forces with the National Citizen Service (NCS) to make these events possible.
They established Loud Speaker in 2019 to give youngsters the chance to get a head start in life following the tragic murder of Calvin's childhood friend.
Thanks to a collaboration with NCS, all places at the weekend events were fully funded, ensuring free attendance for participants.
Mr Eden said: "We’ve been totally blown away by the energy and positivity of the attendees at our events over the Easter weekend, not least at our session in Hexham.
"Our aim was always to try to inspire young people aged between 15 and 17 to think positively about their futures, teach them new skills about themselves and life and build their self-confidence so they’re more ready to tackle the world.
"I think me, Oba and everyone from Loud Speaker and NCS have been the ones feeling totally inspired.
"Every single attendee gave it their all and challenged themselves in ways they hadn’t before.
"It was amazing to see their confidence grow more and more each day."
Over the weekend, participants across the UK were able to engage in outdoor activities such as archery, climbing, zip lines and high ropes.
In addition, they joined workshops that covered building life, employability and enterprise skills, addressing topics ranging from communication and marketing skills to personal branding and start-up business coaching.
One thankful parent, Debra Taylor, said: "A massive thank you for organising the Easter Weekender.
"My son has just got back from Hexham and has had a fantastic time.
"I’ve been following your stories over the weekend from all your events and it looked great.
"You have done a fantastic job!
"Thanks again!"
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here