SKATERS in Thornbury will show off their best tricks and crowd-pleasing stunts at a high-velocity competition next month.

Scores of BMX and scooter riders and skateboarders are expected to roll into the challenge wheels first on Saturday, May 12.

The event at the Thornbury Skate Park will be the first of a series to be put on in the next few months as part of the Street Space project.

The initiative, which was launched in March by youth worker Dan Potter, sets out to offer support to disaffected teenagers across town by meeting them on their home turf and help them reach their full potential.

As part of his job, Mr Potter has spent a lot of his time at the skate park, one of the biggest youth hangouts in the town, in his attempts to reach out to and build relationships with confused or estranged teenagers.

While he was watching the youngsters produce breakneck routines and perfect their jumps for hours on end, he became determined to put the spotlight on the talented youths.

The 26-year-old said: "This skate jam is a chance to showcase some of the skills that they have learned in an area that they are passionate about.

"I’m excited about sporting events like these. They are a great way to encourage self-belief, bring people together and have fun."

And at a time when provision for young people in the town is more uncertain than ever and frontline services are under serious threat, events like these are crucial, according to him.

"Now is a particularly significant time to remember the importance of provision for young people," he added.

"The input that young people receive has a significant and valued impact on their lives and this skate competition shows that we care about our children and their interests."

The contestants will be battling it out for various prizes donated by local and regional sports shops and all funds raised on the day will go towards the upkeep of the skate park.

Town Cllr Clive Parkinson said: "I am encouraged by what Street Space are doing in the town. The town council helped to install the skate park a number of years ago now and it's great to see it being used for events such as this."

The competition will start at 6pm. For more information call Dan Potter on 01454 419118.