TEENAGERS in Melksham are helping to keep funds rolling in for a long-awaited skatepark in the town.

Around 40 youngsters took part in a sponsored skate-athon at the Canberra building in Spa Road to raise some of the £7,000 needed before work can start.

The latest money-spinning idea was the brainchild of campaigners Janice Viveash and Yvonne Ashe and youth worker Tony Nye.

Ramps, supplied by Bath-based company Darkotics, were set up in a hall for three hours in the afternoon.

Mrs Viveash said: "It was a really nice event. We don't know how much has been raised yet but it was quite a bit.

"There were two raffles and we would like to thank the public and companies in Melksham and the surrounding area for their support."

Work is due to start on the new £60,000 skate-park in September. Since the beginning of the year, more than £50,000 has been raised from a range of events.

People have already volunteered their services for free, which has saved thousands of pounds and skatepark specialists Huna Designs has agreed to build it.

A concert, featuring local bands, is being held at Melksham Assembly Hall on September 5. Call (01225) 705866 or (01225) 707413.