DORCHESTER: Celebrating skatepark's first birthday

BMX riders, skate boarders, inline skaters and scooter riders came from far and wide to take part in a day of fun and competition at this extremely popular and successful venue. 

National support and sponsorship had been secured for the event by Dorchester Skate Park Committee, including Maverick, the company who built the park, Monster, Vans, Duff, and We Are Level. 

Participants of all ages, from under 12s to 40 plus were encouraged to join in the Skate Jam, a chance for them to show off their tricks in a relaxed and informal setting. 

A whole host of prizes were available, including t-shirts, trophies and cash, and the day was kept flowing by professional MCs who led the competitions and kept the various age groups segregated. 

There were also some of the best BMX riders, skate boarders and inline skaters in the country demonstrating just how exciting and impressive these sports can be.

The event was opened by the Deputy Mayor of Dorchester, Councillor Kate Hebditch, whose job it had been to open the skate park exactly 12-months-ago. 

It was a great occasion for the whole community, with a wide range of activities to keep people occupied. 

A raffle, climbing wall, bouncy castle, graffiti workshop, bottle rockets, circus skills and craft workshops were all on hand.

The Casterbridge Rotary Club came along with their scalextric and gave everyone the chance to “Beat the Stig”. 

There was a display of superb skate park photography from 13-year-old Thomas Hardye student Jamie Downton, as well as plenty of information from West Dorset District Council and Dorset County Council. 

A first aid post was kept busy with plenty of running repairs to bodies, while bikes and boards also needed frequent attention.  

Food aplenty was on hand with everything from American pancakes to a hog roast and a burger bar. There was even a skate park cake.

PICTURE: BMX riders reached great heights.

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