A SUCCESSFUL skating initiative which sees a 12th century Benedictine abbey transformed into a temporary skate park celebrated its 10th anniversary this, with hundreds of skating enthusiasts taking to the ramps.

Malmesbury Abbey Skate Festival kicked off during half-term this week at Malmesbury Abbey, as hundreds of skating novices and first-timers of all ages had a go at skating in this unique setting.

The three-day skatepark festival, which began in 2009, is run by volunteers in the Abbey congregation, in partnership with charities Christian Surfers and Christian Skaters UK, and is an opportunity not only to serve the local community, but also those from skating communities.

This year's festival has been particularly successful, with people who attended the very first event coming back and showing off their skating skills.

"It has been great, nearly all of the sessions have been full", explained national director of Christian Skaters Phil Williams.

"It was really good seeing so many of the youngsters in their first session in the morning.

"It is really fantastic to see them for the first time going on the ramps and seeing them improve is really inspirational.

"You see the smiles on their faces it is amazing. I think mums and dads really appreciate it as well as it’s a safe environment.

"If, at the end of the first session they have improved and have a smile on their face, it gives us such satisfaction and that is what keeps bringing them back.

"But the volunteers love skateboarding, and without them we couldn't run it.

"Partnership is really important. Partnership with the Abbey, with the skaters, the local community and the local skate park. I don't think it would still be going if it didn't tick all these boxes."

The three day event involves different age group sessions, and closeds with a competition tonight.