Teen's fundraising drive for new skatepark in Bexhill

Harry Harmer, 18, of Ninfield Road, said the present one in Down Road near Bexhill Leisure Centre and King Offa Primary Academy was ‘run-down’ and had seen better days.

The Bexhill College student said: “Since skateboarding started back in the late 1950s it has become very popular in almost every community across the world. In almost every one of these communities you will find a skatepark, a place where local skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters can hang out and practice their sport.

“A skatepark is an essential part of every skateboarder’s life as this is a place they can go to anytime to practice their sport. Our skatepark in Bexhill is old and run-down and an embarrassment, compared to other skateparks such as East Grinstead, Crawley, and Ashford.”

Harry said the skatepark facility was heavily used by many young people in the town.

He added: “I am down there almost every day with a few people. Sometimes we go to the one in Hastings or Eastbourne but it’s hard to get there as none of us drive and I only have a bike. I am trying to raise awareness and funds towards a new skatepark in Bexhill. I have been in contact with Huw Merriman, the Sussex Community Foundation, and the Heart of Sidley organisation about the skatepark and am awaiting a response from one of the organisations. Huw wrote back to me by email twice, saying he would talk to the organisations I wrote to.

“I am hoping to find local businesses which would be willing to help fund a new skatepark by providing the materials needed.”

A Rother District Council spokesman said: “We maintain the skatepark to ensure it is safe and usable. We are currently making ambitious plans to improve leisure and recreational facilities in Bexhill and would be very happy to speak to Mr Harmer to discuss the future of the skatepark.

“We are looking at ways in which new provision could be funded and we particularly welcome hearing of ways in which business and other organisations might be able to help deliver improved facilities for skaters in Bexhill.”

If anyone can help Harry contact him on 07891 774375 or email [email protected].

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