Bridport's 2020 Skate and Ride celebrates third birthday

The 2020 Skate and Ride at Gore Cross Trading Estate will be celebrating with a selection of free refreshments as well as taster sessions for newcomers today and tomorrow, August 5 and 6.

This is the third year the indoor skatepark has been open since it took over the legacy of the old skatepark 'The Trick Factory' which closed in 2016.

Robert Ridge, the lead volunteer at the park and old-school BMXer, said: "It feels like an achievement. We were flying blind for a bit in the first year because of the Covid situation which we rode through, and now we are running smoothly.

"There is always something to do. It sometimes feels like a constant battle to keep the wheels on."

The weekend celebration is hoped to spark interest during the quieter summer months.

"We are treating it like an open day. So people can come to have a look and people who haven't been around for a while to come back," added Mr Ridge.

The facility welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities to take part whether they use a skateboard, scooter, BMX or skates and they also offer teaching sessions.

2020 Skate and Ride is open MONDAY - Saturday throughout the summer to and is one of few indoor, all-weather supervised facilities along the south coast.

Mr Ridge has also announced he will be stepping down from running the park by the end of March 2025. He said: "After much consideration, thought and soul searching, I have decided that I will cease all contributing time to the 2020 Skate & Ride skatepark by the end of March 2025.

"I also feel this is a great opportunity for a new beginning for someone to take on the running of the place and introduce a younger, fresher outlook and influence to 2020 Skate & Ride.

"I really hope someone or a group of interested persons will come forward with interest in securing a future for the park. I look forward to hearing from people"

The skatepark is also looking for volunteers to join the team.

For more information and to book, visit: https://www.facebook.com/2020-Skate-Ride-Bookings-114239227041705/.