YOUNG people in Barnoldswick who told the council they needed more activities to keep them occupied have finally seen their persistence and involvement pay off with the launch of a new skate park.

Local children have spent their spare time raising cash to go towards the facility and this week they watched as the first piece of equipment was installed.

The skate park within Victory Park will provide young people with somewhere to use their skateboards, roller blades and bikes.

Members of the Wheely Park Group, formed by local children, parents and councillors to raise funding for the new equipment, were joined by residents and representatives from Pendle's parks section.

The group has been creating exhibitions and shows to raise funding for the equipment.

Jackie Taylforth, secretary of the Wheely Park Group, said: "Everyone involved has worked hard to raise funds during recent months and we are delighted to see the first pieces of equipment installed. The children are excited about this new facility and can't wait to use it."

The equipment installed this week included three ramps and a grinder rail.

It replaces the former crazy golf course, made up of concrete objects and tunnels, which had become untidy.

Fred Stewart, the council's parks outreach officer, said: "This has been a team effort. The council has brought together various bodies to assist the Wheely Park Group obtain the facilities they want. Further equipment will be added as funding is raised and we hope this will prove a valuable facility for young people in Barnoldswick."

Pendle Community Safety Partnership provided £5,000 towards the surfacing of the skate park; £5,000 was given by the West Craven Committee; £5,000 has been promised by the council and the youngsters raised around £1,000. Fundraising will continue as the park is expected to cost in the region of £47,000.