31 October 2017

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

Skaters, BMX bikers and scooter riders travelled from all around the District on Wednesday 25 October to be part of Skatefest 2017 at Haywards Heath Skate Park.

Skatefest is a relaxed event, designed to bring the local skater community together for an afternoon of music, art and some freestyle tricks and stunts. More than 80 young people took part, pulling off a range of moves from air tricks like the tail whip to various grinds and wheelies.

DJ Neel kept the tunes flowing throughout the afternoon and offered DJ workshops so young people could have a go for themselves. Street artist Julian Johnson held interactive street art sessions and produced two large boards that will be displayed at the skate park.

Councillor Gary Marsh, Cabinet Member for Service Delivery said:

“Skateboarding, BMX biking and scooter riding are a great way for young people to be active and enjoy the outdoors. There’s a real sense of community in the skater scene and these young people are really passionate about their sport. Skatefest is our way to show our support and it has been fantastic to see so many young people taking part.”

Councillor Norman Webster, Cabinet Member for Community added:

“We’re planning to make some major improvements to the facilities at Haywards Heath Skate Park over the next 12 months and it’s going to be really important to get the local skater community involved. We’ve arranged for a professional skate park designer to be at the first of our consultation events at Tory’s café on 7 December and I hope lots of young people join us to share their views and ideas for the future.”

The Skatefest event was organised by Mid Sussex District Council in partnership with Creatives Across Sussex and with support from Clarion Housing Group (formerly known as Affinity Sutton) and Tory’s café, who provided free cake for everyone who attended.

For more information about community events in Mid Sussex contact Regina Choudhury, MSDC Community Development Officer on 01444 477495 or email regina.choudhury@midsussex.gov.uk