THAT familiar refrain by youngsters that "there's nothing to do" can be swiftly stifled by pointing them in the direction of Malvern Youth Centre.

The centre, on Albert Road North, offers a wide choice of activities to children aged 14 to 19.

These range from a simple game of cards or pool, to the more technologically advanced such a shooting and editing a video, browsing the internet or even recording an album with a band.

Other opportunities include use of the outdoor basketball court or the on-site darkroom, complete with cameras. The centre has a stage and rehearsal rooms, complete with drum kit, where bands rehearse almost every night. And once their youthful strummings improve sufficiently, they can record their masterpieces on the in-house recording studio.

None of those appeal? How about indoor volleyball, the Malvern Youth Theatre, relaxation sessions to relieve exam stress, or making giant fish for the Malvern May Day celebrations?

What's more, most of these activities are free, which maybe explains why the venue attracts between 30 and 40 young people every night. Plans are also under way to provide a cafe area, serving hot food.

Dena Falk, who has been a youth worker at the centre since 1995, said that anyone was welcome, no matter what their background.

"There are people here from Worcester Tech, The Chase, Dysons, Alice Ottley. It's a whole mix of people," she said.

"They come here to meet their friends, to take part in Duke of Edinburgh, et cetera. It's a good time and it's free. The world is their oyster, as long as it's not illegal or immoral."

A large proportion of the youth centre's business is decided on by the kids themselves, through SLUGS, a council of young people.

"They get the ideas going and motivate others. They represent a voice for the youth," said Dena.

As well as all the fun on site, the centre also has a 15-seater minibus and takes regular trips further afield. Past jaunts have included skateparks, paintballing, London, camping and trips to Alton Towers.

Dena said that she was also hoping to reintroduce international trips from next year.

The centre is part of the Worcestershire Youth Service and it paid for by Worcestershire County Council with local support through fundraising.

Dena said that while the emphasis at the centre was on fun, it was also educational.

"It equips them for relationships and meeting new people," she said.

"They learn new skills and pursue different careers and complement what they do at school."

Her proud boast is that nobody could come to the centre and say it was boring.

She said: "We're open to new ideas, just come and ask. Come with your friends, bring your own CDs, bring ideas."

The centre is open from 7pm to 9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and from 7pm to 9pm on Wednesdays.