THEY braved blisters and chilly temperatures to walk 60 miles to Number 10 Downing Street in the name of skaters and cyclists in Hampshire.

Two Romsey men handed over a 40,000 strong petition in a plea to get more funding for youth sports activities.

Richard Bartlett and Martin Codling, both 44, want the government to make sure indoor multi-wheeled sports and skateparks get the same recognition and support as ball sports.

They say 45 per cent of the country’s youngsters aged seven to 25 want the chance to skate, BMX, rollerblade and use their scooters but they say there are no indoor parks for them to practise their sport.

The project manager and site manager, both dads-of-three, hope to start their plans to boost the sports by bringing a new £1.4 million skatepark to a disused warehouse at Romsey’s Budds Lane or in Andover if they get funding.

The closest indoor skateparks are at Falmouth or West London.

Richard, said: “People might think it is extreme to walk to the Prime Minister’s house but it is something we are very passionate about. There is a huge need for these activities. They promote health, well being, tackle obesity and help with crime prevention.

“There is nowhere for these kids to go. If the weather is wet, the outdoor parks aren’t suitable. It shows how many people would use these facilities from the amount of support we have got. I hope we are listened to.”