MP Malcolm Moss shows off his pool skills on a visit to the Young People Littleport team. The North East Cambridgeshire MP turned his attentions from Bluebell the Japanese humpback whale to issues closer to home this week. On a visit to the centre in Gra

MP Malcolm Moss shows off his pool skills on a visit to the Young People Littleport team.

The North East Cambridgeshire MP turned his attentions from Bluebell the Japanese humpback whale to issues closer to home this week.

On a visit to the centre in Granby Street, Mr Moss was able to see first-hand where the £35,000 invested by owner and youth worker Phil Malkin had gone.

"He seemed very interested in what we are doing and surprised that we're doing it all on our own," said Mr Malkin.

Mr Malkin also asked Mr Moss's advice on how to heal the rift that has developed with his group and the local authorities.

"It's not just financial support that we haven't had but we've also had no encouragement," said the youth centre owner.

Mr Moss said he would be writing to the district and county council youth services to encourage all sides to "build bridges."

The North East Cambs MP said: "I think we should be backing Mr Malkin's entrepreneurial flair, not knocking it.

"I was very impressed with the numbers of volunteers, and with Mr Malkin's ambition and drive.

"A youth centre is not just bricks and mortar, it's about philosophy and ambience."

He said if a new community centre was going to be built in Littleport, all local authorities could join forces with Mr Malkin and move together to the new site.

Plans for a new community centre in Littleport have not been formalised but it is hoped that money obtained from developers would pay for a new facility in future.