Council explains skateboard ban

There were concerns about damage to the town centre

Young people are being invited to give their views on a recent ban on skateboarding in part of a County Durham town.

Darlington Council passed a by-law in April making skateboarding illegal in its newly-revamped town centre.

A mobile skate park is being erected outside the town hall on Saturday to give youngsters the chance to lawfully practice their skills.

The authority hopes the one-day event will help explain the ban.

Chris McEwan, Darlington Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "The Council is not against skateboarding but we are keen that young people can enjoy this activity in places where both they, and passers-by, are safe.

"We are very keen to hear from young people about what attracts them to the town centre and then we can work to provide a similar experience in other parts of the borough."