SKATERS from Abbotts Ann will now be able to reap the benefits of a specially designed skate park in their village.

The long-awaited park is the result of much campaigning by the village's sports field management committee whch raised £2,000 towards the overall £17,700 cost.

The idea of the park was first mooted in July 2003 and since then villagers have supported a host of fundraising events to make it a reality.

"This is a park for the village kids and it has been designed that way by Gravity," committee member Penny Wilkins said.

Abbotts Ann residents, together with guests the Mayor and Mayoress of Test Valley, looked on as village youngsters Christopher Robbins and Joe Murphy opened the facility. Christopher and Joe are the two members of the Abbotts Ann youth committee who raised the most money for the skate park.

For the full story see Friday's Andover Advertiser.