Frome Skatepark Project will be holding a family fun day and skate jam as part of its ongoing fundraising efforts.

The community group is working to secure funding for a new skatepark which members say the town so “desperately needs.”

The event will take place from 10am until 4pm at the skate park in Mary Baily Field, next to Victoria Park, on Saturday, May 10.

This year the event will include free skate lessons for young people aged 8 to 18 from 10am to 12pm (booking required), followed by a skate jam from 1pm to 4pm. Activities for younger children will also be available throughout the day.

Organised in conjunction with Frome Town Council, the event also provides an opportunity for people to share thoughts and ideas for the future of the skatepark and a potential new location within the Mary Baily field.

The event promises a day of excitement and fun for the entire family, with best trick competitions and music creating an energetic atmosphere. All wheeled sports enthusiasts, including skateboarders, roller skaters, scooter riders, and BMX bikers, are welcome to join in the activities.

The skate jam is open to all ages and skill levels, providing an opportunity for experienced riders to demonstrate their abilities and for beginners to develop their confidence. The event aims to create an inclusive space where participants can engage with wheeled sports, whether through skateboarding, BMX, scootering, or roller skating.

Ed Bucklow, 18, and one of the founders of Frome Skatepark Project, said: “Frome is in desperate need of a new skatepark, and we can’t wait to canvass opinion on our proposals for Frome skatepark from Frome’s wheeled sports community.

“We’re keen to get a wishlist of what users of the skatepark would like to see in any new design – their favourite things about the current park and anything else they’d like to see.

“The skate jam in September was a great day and I encourage everyone who uses the park, or wants to see the facilities improved to come along, have some fun – and most importantly - have your say.”

Wheeled sports offer numerous benefits for young people, providing not only a thrilling way to stay active but also fostering a sense of community, resilience, and creativity.

Participating in activities like skateboarding, BMX, and scootering helps young people develop physical fitness, coordination, and balance, while also promoting mental well-being through stress relief and the joy of outdoor activity.

These sports also encourage self-expression and perseverance as participants continually challenge themselves to learn new tricks and skills.

The Family Fun Day and Skate Jam aims to showcase and celebrate the vibrant wheeled sports culture in Frome while gathering valuable feedback from the community on the current skatepark and Frome Skatepark Project’s proposals for the skatepark.

For more information about the event, to book a free skate lesson, or to get involved with the Frome Skatepark Project, visit https://www.instagram.com/fromeskatepark.project/

Donations towards the new skatepark project are also welcome and can be made via https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/frome-skatepark-project-1