Bikers show off at new skate park

The launch of the Falaise Road facility coincided with the annual Boyley Jam event, held to honour the memory of young BMX rider Richard 'Boyley' Ball, who died in a traffic accident in 2002. Richard's father, Charlie, gave a speech before the attraction was opened by him and deputy council leader Jay Kramer. More than 70 people showed off their BMX skills during the event. Organiser Dean Hearne said: "This was the ninth annual contest we have run, which is usually held on or around Richard's birthday, August 16. "We had around 300 people coming throughout the day, which included spectators and riders. "It went really well and we were pleased with the turnout. "The new skate park is a great facility but at the moment it's more skate orientated rather than geared towards bikers. "It's a start and we see it as part of a long-term goal to provide something for everyone. This town has a steep history of BMX riding. "The new park is going to be named after Richard, which is a really nice touch." The skate park took two months to build and cost 215,000 in total, the bulk of the money coming from the borough council. Skate-boarders campaigned for better facilities and a video on YouTube attracted more than 6,000 hits. East Sussex County Council's Youth Bank gave 25,000 towards the project and 15,000 came from the Boyley Trust. Skate park users also had a significant input into the design and layout. Matt Davey, a youth worker and a skate-boarder of 23 years, believes the new development will put Hastings 'well and truly on the map' for skate-boarding in the UK. Councillor Kramer said: "I was very proud to open the park and delighted to see so many young people making full use of it throughout the day. "We have invested a significant amount of money in upgrading these facilities and the skate park users have been involved with the process right from the start. Opening the park on Saturday to coincide with the Boyley Jam was a real honour and a fitting tribute to a young man who was so active in this community." Hastings Borough Council's leisure team is looking for skaters to remain involved with the site's running and development. Anyone wishing to get involved or needing more details ring 01424 451635 or email leisureadmin@hastings.gov.uk