BMX park first stage opened

Ninfield Parish Council and Youth Forum Representative, Kaye Crittell, said the Youth Forum has spent the past year raising awareness and funds for the small BMX park (situated in the recreation ground) in order for them to get the go-ahead and to complete the first stage.

She said: "They have attended council meetings, delivered flyers, met with police and adult users of the recreation ground, and, based on feedback from a village questionnaire, put together their own Code of Conduct."

The Forum received a grant from the Youth Capital Fund, which has enabled them to build the first stage of the park; encompassed landscaping, tarmac and a half-pipe.

Some objected to the park but the enthusiasm and tenacity of the Forum eventually reaped rewards.

Kaye said: "It has not been easy for the Forum as they have had some opposition to the park, and have also had to contend with the perception that all youths are vandals and have no interest in their village. We have had so much interest and enthusiasm from the young people over the BMX park, and both genders are really fired up about raising the money for the remainder of the park."

She added: "I would really like to raise some positive awareness of the behaviour, commitment, hard work and enthusiasm of these young people."