A PLAQUE giving thanks to those who help raise funds to build the new extension to Melksham Skatepark has been unveiled.

On a surprisingly mild winter day, councillors, business owners and James Threlfall MBE gathered to witness the formal opening of the newly installed half-pipe.

Wiltshire Times: Cllr Phil Alford explains the dynamics of the half-pipe to town mayor, Jon Hubbard at the formal opening of Melksham skatepark extension Photo Trevor PorterCllr Phil Alford explains the dynamics of the half-pipe to town mayor, Jon Hubbard at the formal opening of Melksham skatepark extension Photo Trevor Porter

The plaque displays the names of the donors who helped to raise the £25,000 needed for the much loved ramp.

The businesses who gave money to the project are; Gompels Pharmacy, Gompels Healthcare, Melksham Area Board, Selwood Housing, Dumb Clothing and TKC Sales Ltd.

At the ceremony, chairman of the area board and Wiltshire councillor, Phil Alford told the LDRS that the ramp was another example of the town being driven forward.

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“There’s great things happening and this is just another part of it,” he said. “Again it’s another opportunity for us to help everyone in the community and ensure we’re working for everyone.

“The sponsors have been fantastic, and that’s why it’s happened because the sponsors were willing to contribute.

“It just illustrates that we’re all pulling together.”

Wiltshire Times: Plaque featuring the names of all the sponsors for the skatepark extension Photo Trevor PorterPlaque featuring the names of all the sponsors for the skatepark extension Photo Trevor Porter

Melksham town mayor , Jon Hubbard said: “The great thing about the skatepark is that there’s something there for kids at any stage as they start to learn to skate or scoot.

“And the half-pipe means that there’s a beginners area, as well as some of the more advanced stuff at the park.

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“It’s a phenomenal resource that we have in our community and I’m so grateful to the sponsors who have made this happen, and to James Threlfall who has driven this at every opportunity.”

James Threlfall MBE, broadcaster and local skater, added: “On behalf of all local skaters I would like to express our thanks to the local councils and to the local companies who have made this happen.

“I’ve grown up skateboarding at the skatepark in Melksham and the fact that we have such a high standard facility so supported both by businesses and the local community alike is incredible.

“We are so lucky to have a space like this in the heart of our community and I urge anyone thinking about having a go themselves, whatever age, to get down and give it a try.”