Ashleigh overturns her ASBO!

In October 2008 the 16-year-old from Gibbons Avenue was slapped with a two year Anti Social Behaviour Order along with two boys,both 13 at the time. They had been causing mayhem around the Knowsley Road area, daubing graffiti and hurling abuse at people.

But now Magistrates in St Helens, who praised her for her progress, have lifted Ashleigh’s order. They said they were “more than happy to discharge the order” and congratulated Ashleigh on her continuing achievements.

Her solicitor Chris Maloney told the court: “This is the first time I have defended a client for an early discharge. I can take pride in my client for making such a remarkable change over 16 months.”

Ashleigh, who is studying to be a gym instructor at St Helens College, started volunteering five to six nights a week at youth clubs across the town just a couple of months after the ASBO. Organising sporting events and chatting with kids about her experiences, she also turns out in midfield for Burscough Football Club and boxes at Lowe House Club.
She has been nominated for the Mayor’s Gold Award and been presented with numerous certificates for completing 500 hours as a volunteer.

Devoted mum Elaine, 40 added: “I’m so proud of her. I hope she can help other kids not to go down that path of hanging about in gangs and doing things they shouldn’t. I know she will make an excellent youth worker.”

Councillor Teresa Sims, Executive Member for Safer Communities said: "Ashley is a tribute to herself."

(image - Ashleigh Bibby pictured with her award)