Three young winners of a skateboard design competition have seen their work transformed into actual skateboards in a prize-giving ceremony.
The winners were presented with their prizes by Harpenden’s deputy mayor, Cllr Pip Liver, and the co-chair of the Playpark Action Rothamsted Committee (PARC), Rod Cooley.
Genevieve from Harpenden Academy won in the seven-and-under category, Florrie from Katherine Warrington School won in the eight to 11-year-olds, and Galax from Roundwood Park School won in the 12 to 16-year-old category.
PARC organised the competition to bolster their fundraising efforts, aiming to redevelop the Rothamsted Park’s Skatepark.
The charity, along with Harpenden Town Council, wants to build a revamped, inclusive and modern facility with innovative features to cater to people of all abilities and ages, including skateboarders, BMX bikers, scooters and those using adapted wheelchairs.
Ms Liver said: "Congratulations to all of the winners of this exciting competition and well done to everyone who took part as the standard of creativity is incredible.
"Together with PARC, I would like to encourage Rothamsted Park users, residents and local businesses to get in touch if they are able to support the fundraising appeal, even small donations are so important."
The budget for the skatepark is £250,000, with the town council pledging £100,000 and the rest procured through community fundraising.
While progress is being made, PARC is still appealing to Harpenden residents and businesses for their support.
People can donate by buying a personalised brick or by texting SKATE to 70450 to donate £20 or NEW to 70450 to donate £10.
Businesses can also display their company logos on a donor board for a contribution.
Andrew Hingston, PARC trustee, said: "We would like to thank the Thompson’s Gallery owner Megan Thompson for funding the manufacture of the winning skateboards and for hosting the prize giving event.
"Thompson’s Gallery is a great example of a Harpenden business supporting a local charity and we hope that other Harpenden businesses will also sponsor PARC.
"The winning designs feature imaginative concepts, fabulous use of colour and individual style."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here