Four teenage offenders helped out at a music festival in the town centre to make amends for their crimes.

Working with festival organisers and supervised by staff from Sutton Council’s Youth Offending Team (YOT), the teenagers handed out flyers and gave people directions at the South Central Music Festival in Sutton High Street.

The teens had all committed their offences in Sutton town centre and worked at the festival as part of the court orders received for their crimes.

One 16-year-old offender said: “I stupidly committed fraud in the town centre and got caught.

“I embarrassed myself and my family and by working at this event, I feel I am making them proud of me again.

"I am also doing something positive for Sutton town centre, which makes me feel much better.”

Another 16-year-old boy said: “My offence was shoplifting in the St Nicholas Centre, and I’m really glad I can work at a project right in the town centre to make amends.”

Another offender, aged 17, said: “I love music and want to get a job working as a sound engineer so getting involved like this and giving something back at the same time is really cool.”

Councillor Tony Brett Young, executive member for young people said: “This was an excellent opportunity for young people who have offended to make a positive contribution within their community.”

Thousands of people enjoyed more than 30 live bands and DJs who performed in the bars, pubs and squares in Sutton High Street as part of the South Central Music Festival.

Highlights included indie musician David Ford, Elvis tribute act Elle and Vis and Rosie Wilby, who has supported Bob Geldof and Jamie Callum as well as headlining at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London.