The new Fifth Skate Park in Melksham was officially opened on Saturday (23 September) with more than 50 of the top skaters from Wiltshire attending to demonstrate their skills.

The newest skate park in Wiltshire hosted the final of the Wiltshire Skate Series, with competitors attending and taking part from around the county.

Competitions in BMX, skateboard, scooter and inline skating took place throughout the day, set to the backdrop of a live DJ. More than 50 skaters aged between 13 and 20 attended the event.

Cllr John Thomson said: "We were delighted to officially open the new Fifth Skate Park in Melksham. The park represents a significant investment in Melksham's community facilities and, in this case, for young people. The investment of almost £180,000 reflects Wiltshire Council's commitment to improving access to sport, activities and community facilities.

"It was great to see the final of the Wiltshire Skate Series being held at the new skate park. The popular series is now in its seventh year, and has seen more than 200 competitors take part.

"The series is supported by many volunteers, including young people who gave up their time to ensure the success of the series, and we thank them for helping to make this such a successful event."

The new park provides skaters with a durable, modern facility that has been designed to cater for younger skaters and beginners, through to more advanced skaters, offering a challenging environment for all levels.

The skate park is part of Wiltshire Council's wider investment in Melksham, which has seen almost £10 million of funding to provide the recently opened state-of-the-art football and rugby facilities at Oakfields, an improved Market Place, which is nearing completion, a new cricket pavilion, and the development of a new health and wellbeing centre on the Melksham House site.