A GRANT to the tune of £7,400 is music to the ears of a budding producer who spearheaded a recording studio for Weymouth youngsters.

Simeon Havard, aged 18, suggested the idea when residents of Weymouth Foyer, Pottery Lane, were asked to come up with new uses for their lounges.

The foyer provides supported accommodation for 16 to 24-year-olds.

Magna Housing Association, which gave the grant, owns the building and YOU, an organisation specialising in working with young people, provides the service.

Now young people from Pottery Lane and other accommodation run by YOU in Dorchester, Weymouth, Sherborne and Bridport will be getting to grips with the new equipment.

Former resident Simeon, who lives in Lennox Street, Weymouth, said: “Music’s really changed my life.

“I used to be in trouble all the time. Kids are bored, with nothing to do but music can give people a focus.”

The Weymouth College student, who has just been signed as a record producer by the Bad Habits label, helped decide what was needed for the studio.

This includes an electric drum kit, midi-keyboard, studio monitors and mixer, microphones and computer.

He added: “It’s top quality equipment. A lot research went into it.”

Deputy manager at Pottery Lane, Jacqui Redfern, said: “We’ve got quite a few budding musicians here.

“During Mental Health Week in November, residents recorded their own disc about their take on the week and how music can help in such a positive way.

“Giving focus to music will be an outlet for what some of the young people have been through.

“It’s a good hobby and learning music with other people is relaxing and also a real confidence builder.

“Music is a skill you can take with you through life.

“In the future, we are looking to have our own radio station and perhaps a music festival involving the whole of YOU.

“All of the YOU residents across sites in Weymouth, Dorchester, Sherborne and Bridport will be able to use this.

“We’ve very grateful – it’s not every day you can have the use of such wonderful equipment.”