A community celebration is being planned for the second birthday of the Rivermead Skate and BMX Track in West Swindon.
After a hard fundraising push to build the new facility in September 2022, it has become one of the “nicest” and “popular” assets the parish council has.
Two years on West Swindon Parish Council are organising a free day of fun and a visit by a BMX champion to celebrate on September 21 from 10am to 5pm.
Hayley Bell, West Swindon Parish Council deputy chair, said: “I think it's really exciting that West Swindon is doing their first community event.
“I think it's going to to really good to get all the communities together and celebrate one of the nicest aspects that West Swindon Parish Council have got.
“I think it's a great asset and they just want to showcase that more to the community in West Swindon.
The track was opened on September 10, 2022, after two councillors, Suresh Gattapur and Tim Makofu, raised £4,000 with a 26.2-mile walkathon.
Money was subsequently provided by the Landfill Communities Fund and topped up by the parish council.
A council spokesperson described the facility as “popular”. Bell explained why this might be.
She said: “It's something for our young people to be doing, it's families being able to be active in a non-mainstream way, it's free and all ages can use it.”
Councillor Gattapur previously said: “Myself and Tim Makofu noticed the need for recreational activity in West Swindon for the youth to enjoy. After surveying, a BMX pump track was the most popular request.
"I am over the moon about this project and thankful for everybody who worked hard to get this done.”
The event will feature:
- BMX, Scooter, and Skateboarding Workshops & Competitions hosted by ATB between 2:00 PM and 16:30 PM.
- Inflatable Bouncy Castles and Slides.
- A Cycle Repair Station for anyone needing bike maintenance or advice.
- Wiltshire Police offering free bike safety stamping.
- A variety of food and drink vendors throughout the day.
Also present will be Amelia Eaton, the Junior British BMX champion, who will be joining “to inspire young riders and share her incredible experiences”.
A spokesperson said: “We encourage everyone to bring their bikes, scooters, and skateboards for a fantastic day of fun, learning, and community spirit.”
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