Cheryl's bid to open youth centre

9:02am Thursday 27th March 2008

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Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole wants to open a youth centre for bored teens in her home town.

The pop beauty has already had behind-the-scenes discussions about the idea in Newcastle.

Cole, 24, who now lives in Oxshott, Surrey, was speaking at the band's endorsement launch of a new Kit Kat Senses chocolate bar.

The singer said: "Kids have no opportunities in areas.

"Kids want to be involved in boxing but haven't got a boxing school nearby, little things like that to prevent them, or they're not privileged like that and can't afford £10 a week for boxing or swimming or whatever it is.

"Every community should have a community centre where kids can do stuff.

"I have actually spoken to people about it, getting somewhere in Newcastle, instead of hanging around on the streets somewhere, having somewhere to go."

Cole, who has not been seen with her wedding ring on since learning of England and Chelsea footballer Ashley's alleged infidelity with a Morden blonde two months ago, added: "If and when I do it, I want to be quite hands-on. At the moment I'm too busy with the tour and stuff."

Her bandmate Nadine Coyle blamed today's exploding obesity crisis on the lack of activities available for teens.

She said: "I definitely blame the lack of things to do. There's not enough stimulation for kids."

The band were in London promoting the chocolate bar, which is said to be their highest-paid endorsement yet.