SOME of the finest skateboarders in the land will battle it out for the King of the Castle crown at Clitheroe’s Skate Park next Saturday.

Clitheroe skate ace Peter Griffin landed last year’s title, and the annual free skate competition, operated and managed by Clitheroe Grand, promises to be another monster hit.

“We’ve got skaters from all the over the country coming, it is going to be a fantastic day,” said skate park manager Justin Willis.

“There’s going to be a lot of talent on show and it is brilliant to see Clitheroe hosting such an enjoyable competition.”

Ivana Douglas, the Grand’s creative learning co-ordinator said: “It will be a family day, a music and skate festival, bringing young people together.”

There will be a free barbecue, provided by local churches, and an inflatable assault course for the youngsters to enjoy.

And several local bands, including Fusion, The Rise, Landslide and Easy Target will be playing live during the day.

The musicians have graduated through the Grand’s Be My Band music tuition project.

Skate park boss Justin Willis added: “The skate park is getting more and more popular and there is always a great atmosphere.

“It takes a lot of guts to be a skateboarder and the skill level is incredible.

“I see it as a really healthy thing for mind and body, because every day you want to go and skate, learn new tricks, meet new friends and support and encourage each other.”

The Clitheroe Skatepark, in the castle grounds, opened in 2006 and thousands of youngsters have come from far and wide to use the facility.

n King of the Castle, Saturday, June 29 from 2.30pm. For more details about the free event contact the Grand on 01200 421599