A SKATEPARK has opened as planned in Portchester despite a spate of vandalism which threatened to delay its unveiling.

An official opening ceremony was held by Fareham Borough Council yesterday.

The facility includes a meeting point and a games area for football and basketball, as well as several skate ramps.

Earlier this month it was strewn with litter as vandals attacked Wicor Recreation Ground in Cranleigh Road. Thousands of pounds of damage was caused to the neighbouring cricket pavilion as yobs wrecked the changing rooms and spread human excrement across the walls in three separate attacks.

Civic chiefs, who were supported by police, heralded the opening of the skatepark. Fareham's executive member for leisure, Councillor Connie Hockley, said: "We are delighted to offer the young people of Portchester this excellent new facility where they will be able to spend their free time, playing sports or simply relaxing with friends."