MELKSHAM’S new Skate Park will be officially opened on Saturday 23 September, when it hosts one of the events for the Wiltshire Skate Series, an annual programme of youth-led competitive skate events that take place across the county.
Competitions will take place throughout the day in BMX, skateboard, scooter and inline skating, set to the backdrop of a live DJ. Around 60 people, aged between 13 and 25, are expected to attend the event.
The programme is led by a young person forum, which is made up of local young skaters with the support of Wiltshire Council officers.
With four events at different skate parks across the county, the Wiltshire Skate Series encourages volunteering among young people, with judges, skate marshals, DJs and helpers all giving up their time free of charge to ensure the success of the events.
The youth-led model ensures that the project stays current and relevant, which in turn ensures the success and attendance of the events.
John Thomson, cabinet member for leisure, said, “We’re delighted to hold this event at the new Melksham Fifth Skate Park. This fantastic new facility is already being well used by young people from around the area, and this event will be a superb showcase of their talents.
“Raising sustained sports participation among hard to reach young people can have a direct impact on their long-term health and wellbeing. Our sports development team works in partnership with communities, consulting with young people to provide sport and physical opportunities they will enjoy. This gives the best chance of community engagement and project success.”
Registration for the event starts at 9.30am before the competition kicks off at 11am. For more information on Wiltshire’s StreetGames, please contact Danny Geeson, sports development officer, 01225 770248 or daniel.geeson@ wiltshire.gov.uk.
Pictured above: Children at the park in August after works were completed. Below Skater James Threlfall tries out the new skate park.
