Southwater Skate Jam delivers a fantastic day

Southwater Skate Jam on 4 October 2026 proved to be a huge success, bringing together people of all ages for a fun-filled day of skateboarding, scootering, parkour, BMX, inline skating, great food and community spirit.

Blessed with perfect weather, the event took place under sunny skies and dry conditions, creating ideal circumstances for spectators and participants alike. The skate park was buzzing with activity throughout the day, with a particularly strong turnout from young scooter riders who showcased their skills and enthusiasm in the competitions. Organisers hope to see even more skateboards, BMX riders and other extreme sports represented at future events as Southwater Skate Jam continues to grow.

Southwater Skate Jam featured competitions delivered by Team Extreme, whose professionalism, energy and music helped create an exciting atmosphere throughout the day. Competitors impressed both judges and spectators, with winners taking home a range of prizes at the end of the event.

Alongside the competitions, visitors had the opportunity to try parkour with instructors from Crawley Parkour. The sessions proved popular with both children and adults, attracting participants throughout the day who were keen to learn new skills in a safe and supportive environment.

The event offered much more than sporting action. Families relaxed on picnic blankets, children played and explored, and several dogs joined their owners at the event. Hardy Yard's pizza stall was a popular feature throughout the day, serving freshly made pizzas to visitors.

The event was supported by Parish Councillors John Potts and Graham Watkins, members of the Parish Council office team including the Community Engagement Officer, who organised the event, the Executive Officer and Deputy Executive Officer, as well as Neighbourhood Warden Bettina Long.

Attendees, participants and spectators provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, highlighting the friendly atmosphere, activities and overall enjoyment of the day. Thanks were also extended to Horsham District Council and its Community Grant Fund for supporting the event.

Following the success of this year's event, planning is already being considered for a future Skate Jam, with aspirations to build on this year's activities and participation.

A gallery of photographs from the day is available on the Parish Council website. The images were taken by Southwater Parish Council's Community Engagement Officer, Veronika Tóth. Readers are encouraged to view the gallery and revisit the highlights of the event on the Parish Council's website. https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/post/southwater-skate-jam-delivers-a-fantastic-day