Skate park praised by teenagers who use it (From Warrington Guardian)

Orford skate park praised by teenagers who use it

4:20pm Saturday 12th May 2012 in News

Some of the teenagers at the new skate park

A NEW skate park can help turn around the lives of youngsters in Orford, according to teenagers who use it.

The new facility is part of a revamped area of Orford Park where a play area has also been installed.

Orford resident Matt Lamb, aged 18, is a regular at the skate park and has started a course at Warrington Collegiate since becoming involved with it.

He said: “Before there was nothing here and no one would come.

“There would just be anti-social behaviour on a Friday and Saturday night.

“People were drinking and taking drugs and it had a bad reputation.

“Now everyone wants to look after it.”

Matt is one of 14 friends who, with the help of the borough council, have set up Stronger Together Skaters.

It is a constitutionalised group which will organise events for the community at the park, including a skate display during the Queen’s visit next Thursday.

Simon Harrison, Orford Park project engagement officer for Warrington Borough Council, said the skate park is already having a positive impact on the community.

He said: “The area has completely changed.

“The young people are learning more skills. They are all focused on going for the same purpose and taking pride in it.

“It happened quite organically. First they asked for a brush to sweep up, then if they could make it look nice.

“Now they lads are telling people off for swearing and dropping litter.”

Mr Harrison also commended the Stronger Together Wardens for doing a ‘stellar job’ in working with the teenagers.

Warden Tom Mather, said: “These lads were here every day and wanted to get a group together. They’ve done it off their own back.”