DOZENS of youngsters have been making the most of a visit to their village from a mobile skate park.

The attraction was set up in Debenham and the ramps were opened up to youngsters from 10am yesterday morning.

Despite a short shower, nothing could dampen the spirits of the skateboarders and BMX bikers that turned out.

The ramps will remain at the Debenham Sport and Leisure Centre for a second free session today.

The event has been organised by Project D, a group led by Debenham youth worker Jane Baldwin.

Project D is working to raise funds for a new permanent skate ramp in the village and the visit from the mobile park is aimed at proving that there is sufficient demand.

Mrs Baldwin said: “In 1999 the community funded what was then a leading example of a skate park. But it fell into disrepair and closed and the ramps were got rid of.

“But there’s a group of young people in the village who want a new one.”

The old skate park was located at the leisure centre for 11 years and negotiations are ongoing to try to use the site for the new facility.

Project D holds regular meetings that are attended by 25 youngsters and the aim is to engage with the community and parish council.

Mrs Baldwin added: “There’s a few people that have the perception that skate parks equal trouble, but by bringing the mobile skate park here on a regular basis we can show that this would be an asset to the village.”

For more about Project D visit www.debenhamsuffolk.org.uk/skatepark.