Last updated at 11:34, Tuesday, 19 August 2008

THE crowd went wild for the daring stunts displayed at Barrow’s new £140,000 skate park.

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ROLLING WITH IT: Barrow mayor Councillor Dave Roberts cuts the ribbon at the opening of the town’s new skate park CHRIS WARNER REF: 0445960

Professional team Death Skateboards entertained with their fast and fearless jumps and turns at yesterday’s official opening of the Barrow Park facility.

Furness skaters, roller bladers and BMX riders have been campaigning for a park like this for years, and this weekend it was formally opened by Barrow mayor Councillor Dave Roberts and Death Skateboards.

The concrete design of challenging ramps was finished about two weeks ago – but the kids were using it before it was even dry.

Barrow Borough Council started putting together ideas for the park two year ago and young people were consulted about various designs.

The Big Lottery gave £100,000 and £40,000 came from the council.

On opening day, young people of all ages took to the park before being inspired by Death Skateboards.

The audience also cheered on 12-year-old Felix Hughes. He thrilled the crowd with a spectacular jump over a friend who was on all fours on a ramp.

Felix was presented with a deck by Death Skateboards and he also got sponsored by the Wombat, a Lancaster skate store owned by Barrow’s David Diamond.

Felix, who has been skating for two years, said: “I’m shocked and happy. The skate park is really good.

“The design is good. I like a challenge and trying something new. Death Skateboards are great.”

Death Skateboards were mobbed by their fans, as they gave away freebies and signed boards, T-shirts, jeans and even people’s faces.

Nick Zorlac, Death Skateboards’ team manager and skater, from Harrow, said: “I think this park is really, really good.

“I think it’s a really good environment for the kids.

“It’s good that they can use this space without spending money.

“They can meet friends and it’s healthy for them.

“There is talk of skateboarding becoming an Olympic sport.

“This is a place where kids can hone their skills.

“A lot of skate parks are in the worst part of a town, but this area is really nice.”

Asked about Felix, the skate pro said: “He’s rippin’ – he’s a really good kid.”

Barrow blader Michael Wakefield, 18, said: “This is one of the best skate parks in Cumbria.

“It’s very well designed. Death Skateboards have been awesome.”

Richard Hennah, the council’s standards and facilities manager, said: “It’s a brilliant turn out.

“I think it shows if you listen to what young people want you have recipe for success.”

Cllr Roberts, said: “We have a wonderful park and I can see this will be a wonderful asset for the kids.”

First published at 12:05, Monday, 18 August 2008
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk