Sam Thomas describes a typical evening at Red Café.

6.30 pm

Came in.  Went to the bar and chatted with James, one of the Red Café youth workers. As usual I started the evening with a bar of chocolate – Fair Trade, of course.

6.45pm

Played pool with James.  Was fun even though I lost! I went on the computer for a bit and then joined in a workshop where Liz was making smoothies. We came up with some great combinations.  I think blueberry, grape and melon was the favourite of the night!

7.30pm

Decided it was time for some exercise so went into the gym for a bit.  Paul, one of the volunteers runs a session once a week.  He’s a qualified fitness instructor and is really good at making it fun. I enjoy the rowing machine best and I ended up with a new personal best time.

8.15pm

Did a stint on the bar. I’ve just started training as a youth volunteer at Red Café and tonight I learned how to use the till and run the bar. Adam showed me what to do and then hung around for a bit to make sure I knew what I was doing. It was great to be in charge – I think the power could go to my head!

8.45pm

Ended the evening with a whole crowd of us on the Wii doing Rock School stuff.  I tried the drums which were OK.  I think I was better at singing.  X Factor watch out!

9.30pm

Completed the Zest Factor chart where I rated what I thought about tonight’s session – gave it a bullseye - and then headed off home, still singing ‘Stairway to Heaven