A GROUP of youngsters who have taken on a project to get their skate park renovated have presented their plans to the public.

The group, made up of people in their teens and early twenties, are campaigning to get the skate park at King George V Playing Fields in Hitchin improved and expanded.

As well as drawing up plans, they have presented their vision to Hitchin area committee and are now looking at ways to take the project forward.

Youngsters held an event at the skate park on Saturday, showcasing their plans, asking people’s views and putting on skateboarding and BMX displays.

James Tilley, 18, is involved in the project.

He said: “BMX riders and skaters are not seen to be the nicest people, and I think this has helped to prove that we actually care and that, if you want to, you can really stick to something and be adult about it.

“We are looking to get it [the skate park] extended and also improved because there are certain parts which aren’t looked after very well.”

The group, which are supported by Groundwork Hertfordshire, are currently working on potential fundraising applications.

The cost for the skate park is estimated to be between �30,000 and �60,000, depending on which construction method is used.

“We’ve spoken to the council and made presentations. It’s now a case of trying to get this to actually happen,” added James.

“We’re hoping to get involved if this does go ahead with the building and construction, so we can really get hands on.”

Another Groundwork venture, Yor Radio, was also showcasing its work last week.

The online community radio station, which is run by young people between the ages of 11 and 19, was in Hitchin Market Place on Friday inviting people to get involved.

Bands and musicians performed at the event to promote the Bancroft-based station.

The Priory School student, Tom Coombes, 16, said: “We are trying to get people interested in what we do. On the whole, we got a good reception.

“We’ve got a lot of Hitchin people involved, but we’d like to spread out to the rest of North Herts as well.”

The radio station is looking for both young people and adults to get involved, in a number of roles including DJs, sound technicians, musicians, bands and behind the scenes.

It is also looking for business sponsorship, with an aim to becoming an FM station.

To find out more on either of these projects, ring Diana Headley on 07702 941440 or email diana.hedley@groundwork.org.uk