ELGIN'S youth cafe attracted an influx of visitors as it opened its doors to celebrate 21 years.

Youngsters behind Elgin Youth Development Group's (EYDG) milestone event last Saturday said they were delighted with its success.

Visitors were able to tour the Francis Place cafe as well as the neighbouring Inkwell social enterprise and community kitchen.

Gallery1

A photo display depicting scenes from the last 21 years was on show and a film, shot and edited by young people, featured stories from members, staff and supporters from across the organisation's history.

Cooking demonstrations played out, while volunteers and cafe-goers from over the years were in attendance to mark the milestone.

Moray's Lord Lieutenant, Grenville Johnston, was among guests at the special celebration and congratulated all involved.

Lieutenant Colonel Johnston said: "Over the years, the young people have demonstrated their impact on communities, from intergenerational projects to fundraising activities.

"It is their determination that has guided many of their membership to receive Saltire Awards for their volunteering efforts and more recently receive acclaim at Moray's Young Citizen Awards.

"In their 21 years of operation, they have welcomed three members of the royal family, undergone around six renovations, held over 2500 activities and raised over £4 million pounds for the benefit of young people in Moray.

"Add in a Queen's Award for Voluntary Service a few years ago and it is no wonder that this year they added Community Based Youth Work Project of the year 2019 to the list of their successes."

EYDG was founded in 1998 to create a safe and social space for young people in the town as part of work by the congregation of St Giles church.

Lt Col Johnston said: "A team of people got together with an idea. They also had determination and commitment – attributes which have been passed on to numerous volunteers and helpers and supporters over many years. My praise for all that work over all the years cannot be emphasised enough."

The organisation's marketing and communications officer Emma-Louise Smith-Hunter said the young organising team were over-the-moon with how the anniversary celebration went.

She said: "We were busy with a constant stream of people the entire time and it was great for the young people of today to meet some of those who have attended Elgin Youth Cafe over the years."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.