A community group is holding Halloween costume party for young people to keep them off the streets and 'away from gang culture.'

Ilford BACA will be holding the party for 11-16 year olds at the non-alcoholic chill-out lounge in Clementswood Community Centre on Connaught Road, Ilford.

The lounge allows children to socialize in a safe adult-supervised environment, says organiser Juliet Chowdhry.

During the Halloween party there will be a talk from police advising on safety during Halloween and on teen knife crime.

Simon Standen, outreach officer for High Road Baptist Church will also talk to youngsters about ‘looking out for one another'.

The Halloween Party will be held on October 31 and entry will cost £2.00 which will include one free non-alcoholic cocktail. Food, drinks and snacks will be sold throughout the night.

Hannah Chowdhry, daughter of party organiser, Juliet, said "So far attendance at our events have been very diverse and we have had Jewish, Muslim, Christian teenagers in attendance and we hope diversity increases.

"It is a wonderful opportunity for parents to put their feet up and leave their teenage children in a safe supervised environment.

"Moreover, it will allow local youth in Ilford to use their Ipads, phones and play games using our electronic whiteboard, whilst socialising more communally with others of a similar age.

"We have a sound system and can also play music for those who want to dance or simply prefer a slightly noisier background.

"We hope having supervised arenas like this will get more young people off the streets and away from gang culture, while also promoting local unity."