Chris Carter A WISE man once said to me: If you want to keep teenagers out of trouble, keep them busy. That man was entrepreneur Jack Petchey who last week celebrated 10 years of presenting awards to young people for their achievements. The concert at Sadler s Wells

Chris Carter

A WISE man once said to me: "If you want to keep teenagers out of trouble, keep them busy."

That man was entrepreneur Jack Petchey who last week celebrated 10 years of presenting awards to young people for their achievements.

The concert at Sadler's Wells Theatre in north London gave young musicians the chance to perform on the grand stage and demonstrate their undoubted talents.

Those youngsters would have had little time to get into trouble as they have spent the past few months practising non-stop for their big performance.

Hundreds more children will have been similarly occupied for the Redbridge Choral Festival due to take place at London's Royal Albert Hall last night (Weds).

The temptation is to suggest those who will be performing are the ones who are least likely to roam the streets causing havoc, but that is not always the case.

Music has been shown to steer the disaffected away from trouble - whether it be classical or hip-hop.

There is no doubt punishments for loutish behaviour must fit the crime, but for first offenders a couple of months learning the oboe might be more beneficial than time in custody - or perhaps a combination of the two?

HAVE YOUR SAY: Email letters@ilfordrecorder.co.uk