AFTER a lot of hard work, the students at Budehaven have welcomed the opening of the school's brand new skate park.

The new project was driven by Year 9 student, Dan Cornish, who managed to secure funding for the equipment from the Our Money Your Dream organisation.

The students have been waiting for a long time for the park to open and were treated to a really great launch event.

Over 15 pupils from Years 7, 8 and 9 took part in Budehaven's first ever skate competition. Hot summer sunshine, some brilliant tunes, a great crowd and the excitement of new skate park ensured that the atmosphere was fantastic.

The skaters were split into two groups for the competition (advanced and intermediate), with each allowed to skate for 15 minutes.

Individuals were judged by their peers as well as representatives from Rubicon, Airculture and Evolution. Judges focused on technical ability, as well as style and how well the competitors flowed in the park.

The skating was fast and furious, with the large crowd cheering on competitors when particularly difficult manoeuvres were landed.

The advanced competition was won by Max Pechonis, with second place going to Jago Kinnersley. A tight judging decision saw Dan Cornish and Will Stroudley come joint third.

The intermediate competition was won by Tom French, with Charlie Falla coming in second and Josh Collins third.

All skaters agreed that they had a great time, that the skate park was a great success and that they cannot wait for further competitions.

Mrs Denise May, Budehaven Director of Sport, said: "What a fantastic achievement by the young people. They have worked hard to secure the funding and we have been able to support their efforts resulting in a first class skate park in the school.

"I believe we are one of the first schools to have such a high quality area and top class equipment for students. It has been a really motivational tool and has added a new dimension to opportunities at Budehaven. There was a truly vibrant atmosphere at the opening and long may it continue!"

She added: "Special thanks must go to Mr Reay and Mr Howells for their exceptional support in this project. Further thanks go to Airculture, who supported the event with prizes, Evolution for making the effort to be at the launch and for Rubicon, who helped in the judging and have provided taster sessions for the students over two days."