A new youth centre endorsed by Lioness hero Alessia Russo has opened in her home town as she says it is important for young people to have a safe space.

The 326 centre is in the upper level of The Mall in Maidstone and is open every weekday from 3pm to 6pm - hence the name - and during the day on Saturdays.

Young people between the ages of 11 and 16 will have access to a range of board games, sports equipment like table tennis and a DJ/music desk.

The project has caught the attention England woman's striker Alessia Russo.

The young football starlet grew up in Maidstone, going to St Simon Stock School and perfecting her craft at Bearsted Football club at a young age.

In a video for Maidstone Borough Council (MBC), the Manchester United striker said: "A huge congratulations to Maidstone and the 326 hub.

"The project sounds amazing. It's really important for young people to have a safe space where they can go an interact and meet new friends.

"It sounds fantastic and I can't wait to hear more about it soon."

The hub officially opened its doors on February 24.

Cllr Lottie Parfitt-Reid, MBC lead member for communities and public engagement said: "This new youth hub will be a great place safe space for young people to visit and it is fantastic that Alessia took time out of her busy schedule to record such a supportive message.

"National increases in youth violence, mental health concerns and suicides can all be linked to the fact that our young people are facing a challenging time.

"Through the work of the Town Centre Task Force, we set out an ambition to create a space, in the heart of Maidstone, that gives young people a place to be safe, where they are supported and where they are allowed to grow as individuals."

The council hopes to work in tandem with the InfoZone Youth Centre behind the police station in Palace Avenue run by Kent County Council.

This youth hub will remain open and offer its services past 6pm as usual but will also be used during the day to young people who need access to its services.

An MBC spokesman said: "As part of our community safety work, we have recognised that in an evolving world, we need to take greater steps to safeguard our young people.

"Through our collaborative work with Kent County Council, we have set out an ambition to create a space, in the heart of Maidstone Town Centre, that gives young people a place to be safe, where they are supported and where they are allowed to grow as individuals. A space to be a young person."