TEENAGERS from a Hampshire village have been left devastated after plans for a community skateboard park were thrown out by the very people who set the whole thing in motion.

In October last year jubilant youngsters cheered every time a Whiteley parish councillor spoke to back plans for their new skatepark.

After two consultations and a month-long public display, they'd finally won support for a community skatepark.

Winchester and Fareham Council even agreed to pay £46,000 each towards the project.

But last night, the teenagers were left close to tears as their hopes were shattered by the council that 12 months ago sparked the whole thing off.

"It's stupid," said Richard McVicar, 14. "We've waited for this for ages, and now they're taking it away before it's even been built."

Whiteley Parish Council called an extraordinary meeting to discuss the skateboard park after "new information" came to light from residents who opposed the scheme.

About 35 people, including ten teenage skaters, turned out to the Meadowside Centre to give their views on the controversial issue.

Residents living near the Gull Coppice playing field said it would generate noise and antisocial behaviour and would attract problem teens from across the area.

One homeowner told the meeting: "Everywhere, skateboard parks are closing down because they're a meeting point for youngsters who come in from outside. It's the culture of skateboarding and we don't want it here."

But resident Elizabeth Hobson said: "A decision made last October perfectly legitimately and wisely should not be reneged on. You can't go back on promises to children. It's just not fair."

Fourteen-year-old James Cullen added: "You can't skateboard at night because you can't see, so there won't be people out after dark. And if it's for us, I'm not going to vandalise it. People are stereotyping skaters."

Chairman Ron Finlay told the two-hour meeting: "I believe a minority may cause the majority of trouble. Unfortunately, the trouble is there and the residents of Whiteley don't want it on their doorsteps."

He suggested throwing out the plan - and it was supported by five votes to four.

Cllr Finlay invited the skaters to form their own Junior Whiteley Parish Council to "give themselves a voice" and resubmit the bid.