News

Innovative Poole youngsters are to be rewarded for their work in helping to provide a skateboard park for young people in the Borough.

'Funseeker', a registered charity formed by young people in Spring 2000, has embarked on a very successful fundraising campaign and has worked in partnership with both the Borough of Poole and Dorset Police. They have been chosen to receive the John Jay Shield for Community Safety for their achievements in 2000-01.

Superintendent Chris Dennis, Divisional Commander of Poole, Dorset Police, said: "It is extremely satisfying to be able to reward a positive youth scheme, in which young people have actually helped to achieve the end result and not just benefited from the work of others. 'Funseeker' have been pro-active in enlisting the support of local businesses, residents' groups and the local community. Before the skate park was open, young people were forced to participate in this healthy, outdoor sport by using roads, pavements, car parks and other unsuitable venues. This behaviour is often seen as being anti-social by other members of the community and can lead to a perceived negative image of young people generally."

He added: "The provision of any youth facility can help to divert some youths from causing anti-social behaviour and in more serious incidents, from becoming offenders. If they have nothing to do in their spare time, they generate their own activities. The skate park is multi-functional as it caters for skateboarders, BMX and micro-scooters from beginners to advanced levels. 'Funseeker' have also held regular fundraising events at the park itself, incorporating competitions with displays from some top performers."

The Mayor of Poole, Councillor Ron Parker, who will present the shield to 'Funseeker' on behalf of Poole's Crime and Disorder Partnership, said: "It is wonderful that all those who worked so hard for this project are being rewarded for their time and effort. I look forward to having the opportunity to thank the parents who have supported and guided the project, the businesses and other groups that have provided the sponsorship and of course to the young people themselves who have stayed with the project and made it happen. They have helped provide a facility not just for themselves but also for future extreme sports enthusiasts. Well done and congratulations to them all."