10:00pm Wednesday 28th April 2010
YOUNGSTERS have helped raise £1,000 towards a new BMX track that police hope will reduce incidents of bikes causing problems for residents.
The new facility is situated on the recreation ground in Worsthorne Village and was the brain child of local PCSO Dave Johnson.
He thought a BMX track might help solve the issue of youths speeding around on their bikes, doing stunts on street furniture and causing problems for residents.
He also spearheaded the fundraising efforts, helping to turn the ambitious idea into reality by setting up the aptly named Worsthorne BMX Group which raised the money for the project.
“The track is brilliant, boasting a very large area for people to practice their skills on or just have fun,” said PCSO Johnson.
“It’s a fantastic new facility and I would like to thank everyone who helped to raise the money for it including local youths who raised £1,000 by carrying out car washes and other charity activities.”
Building work on the track was completed this week and the first hills, berms and corners have been careered around.
PCSO Johnson said: “The track is open to all youths in Burnley and I would encourage them to use it.
“They can either visit it with their BMX or come on foot and make use of the picnic area, hard standing area to kick a ball about or grassed areas for football or other sports.
“I would however, urge them to respect the area too and to use it safely. Sadly we can’t accept responsibibility for any damage, loss or injury whilst using the facility and we’d ask that very young bike riders take their parents with them when they visit the site.”
Police have warned people that anyone using the track on a mini-moto or a motorbike will face action.
“People complain there is nothing for their children to do, well now there is so please come and use the track,” said PCSO Johnson.
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