Ref. 289976SKATEBOARDERS and BMXers took over Swindon town centre and for once they were given a warm welcome.

Mayor Derek Benfield seemed happy to see a team of professionals turn Market Street into a showcase for some of the finest skating in the country.

Dozens of skate-mad teenagers flocked to the temporary Eastpak mini ramp to get a good view of the action.

The demonstrations were part of Eastpak's national Transition tour aimed at helping local skaters raise money for their own permanent facilities.

The Swindon show marked the launch of the Swindon Community Sk8 Project an ambitious plan led by parents of local skaters to build an indoor park somewhere in town.

Organisers are hoping to raise £500 from the event. The money will fund an application to become a charitable trust with a view to attracting large donations.

Mayor Benfield said he backed the idea of a permanent skate facility and was eager to view the project's business plan.

"If it stands up then I'm all for it. Skate-boarding has stood the test of time now it's up to the council to have a serious look at what we can do."

The skaters showing off their skills in Market Street were Dan Cates and Lee Blackwell, and the BMX riders Anthony Pill and Ben Hennon.

Dan Cates, a London-based skater of 16 years' experience, turned professional four years ago. He said: "There seems to be so many skaters here that it's only a matter of time before they get their own park.

"It's always so difficult working with the council you just have to keep plugging away."

Wayne Healey, of Eastpak UK, said: "People want skaters off the streets but they're not prepared to help by putting their hands in their pockets.

"But if the level of support carries on like this Swindon's skaters have a good chance of getting a facility, and they deserve it.

For more information about the campaign go to www.swindoncommunitysk8project.co.uk or email info @swindoncommunitysk8project.co.uk.