A YOUTH project in Kensal New Town has been forced to close while its chairman is in hospital.

Gordon Deaville, a well-known visitor to Golborne Road, North Kensington, and chair of Kensal Youth (Drama) Club is in St. Mary’s Hospital, Paddington.

He has been there since January 17, when he collapsed with pneumonia in a friend’s flat in Southern Row, Kensal Town.

Whilst Mr Deaville is treated for the condition in the famous hospital – where he is being fed by tube - the youth project, founded in 1972, has been forced to cease its good work until he recovers.

Writing to this newspaper from his hospital bed last week, he said: "I have recovered conciousness. Slowly, I am getting better."

Club secretary Judith Elbourne(COR) said: "We wish Gordon a speedy recovery and ability to eat normally soon."

Both Gordon and Judith received a Kensington and Chelsea, Make a Difference Award, in 2002.