A BATON-TWIRLING youth group is on the brink of extinction.

The Wickford Youth Band and Majorettes has been running for more than 30 years and is determined not to fade away into the pages of history, despite dwindling numbers.

Chairman Alex Kerr, said the group had vowed to stay open until the last child leaves, although he's hoping it doesn't come to that.

Mr Kerr said: "It would be a terrible shame if the group had to close. It's been a great tradition in Wickford for the last 30 years and we'd really like to keep it going."

Mr Kerr said the troupe needed to raise its profile and attract new members. The troupe is set to play at the Wickford carnival on the afternoon of September 15.