Pressure is building for a new concrete skatepark at Holbeach to give the town’s youngsters something to do.
A group of 20 teenage skateboarders have kicked off their renewed campaign by raising more than £1,000 through a fun day in the summer and a sponsored cycle ride to Spalding this month.
In pouring rain five 13 and 14-year-olds, Jordan and Kyle Barnes, Dan Billings, Liam Barton and Cameron Rickerby pedalled eight miles accompanied by PCSO Ben Harrington and PC Bob Jones on their cycles.
Donna Barnes, whose two sons are involved, said: “There’s nothing for young people to do in Holbeach apart from boxing.
“The youth club’s closed awaiting volunteers to run it and the old skatepark which wasn’t adequate for the job has never been replaced.
“My sons and others met Coun Nick Worth and representatives from skatepark designers Maverick in summer 2011 and were told they needed to raise £10,000 before grants can be won towards the estimated £90,000 cost.
“It’s a tall order for them but this summer we set up a committee of parents and the lads organised a fun day themselves which raised £800.
“That inspired them to actively seek support and already 100 people have signed up calling for a skate park.
“Their most recent move was the bike ride which made £600 even though only five lads took part, as some of the original group have gone to college.
“We’re approaching all the primary schools as it’s under-11s who’ll benefit. We aim to raise cash by staging fun events and activities for young people.”
*If you or your children want to get involved in the campaign of positive fun activities towards achieving a skatepark for Holbeach, take a look at Skatepark in Holbeach on Facebook.
*To contact organisers of the campaign including Donna Barnes, email holbeachskate parkandyouth@aol.com