YOUNG skaters are jumping for joy thanks to a grant from an Olympic legacy charity.

The Front skatepark in Preston Beach Road in Weymouth has been awarded £2,000 by Sported, a charity which aims to inspire the next generation through sport.

The skatepark opened in 2001 and provides facilities for young people to take part in BMX riding, skateboarding and scooter activities.

The grant from Sported and a further £5,000 from Dorset County Council will go towards building more ramps and jumps which young people can help to design as part of the project.

Fundraising committee member Darrell Gilley said: “I’ve applied for so many grants and we’ve been so lucky to get two of them.”

Mr Gilley, whose 12-year-old son Samuel regularly rides his scooter at The Front, joined forces with other parents to improve the facilities for youngsters.

The Front is a registered charity and relies on money raised from fundraising events.

It was set up to reduce anti-social behaviour caused by young people BMX riding or skateboarding along the Esplanade.

There are two full-time employees and the rest are volunteers who form the committee for the park.

Mr Gilley, a prison officer, said: “Any money raised goes back into the skatepark, into making more ramps for the children or equipment such as helmets.”

The cash windfall will also help The Front attract more youngsters and invite them to take part in activities.

Sported regional manager for the South West Julian Wills said: “The Front has been operating for over ten years, successfully using skateboarding and BMX-ing as a diversionary tool to help engage with young people.

“Sported is delighted to grant £2,000 to assist with further development of the project.”