Surrey County Cricket Club is delighted to be the venue for the launch of the Southwark Police Karrot Project, where pupils from Southwark schools joined police, councillors and VIPs to celebrate the launch of an exciting new scheme for 11 to 15-year-olds that rewards young people for good behaviour.

Karrot has been developed by Southwark Police Partnership Team, working closely with the London Borough of Southwark, the Youth Offending Team and schools across the Borough.

In addition to being the host venue Surrey is pleased to participate in providing a dedicated activity worker to provide a programme using cricket and the branding of Surrey County Cricket Club as a mechanism to develop young peoples awareness of team work, diversity and possible employment opportunities.

Paul Sheldon, Surrey County Cricket Club Chief Executive stated: "Surrey is pleased that we are yet again in the position to support and participate in such a worthwhile community project. Not only do we consider it a great honour to host this truly significant event, but we also feel it is most fitting - in that a large part of our vision as a cricket club and a world famous sporting venue involves a deep commitment to young people in the community.

"We have been involved in many programmes either as leaders or as partners, which use the medium of sport and entertainment to bring fresh enthusiasm to the lives of young people. Such well managed and focused programmes bring a sense of working together, relying on others, discipline and playing by the rules.

"I never cease to be amazed by the impact we can have on the confidence and self esteem of these girls and boys. As such, sport particularly team sports, can be used as a model for life. I know that it is all these qualities which form a pivotal part of this hugely worthwhile and ambitious project. We wish the project every success and look forward to welcoming the children from Southwark here to the AMP Oval again."

Surrey Cricket has long been recognised as a leader in youth development and is always keen to forge new links with projects such as this. The Club are proud to be asked to participate in this venture and add to the resume of community projects that we have already been involved with.

© Surrey CCC