AFTER more than five years of campaigning, east Durham has secured a portable skateboard park.

The ramps and safety equipment, worth £37,000, will be set up in different parts of the district according to demand.

It was the lack of skateboarding facilities in the area that first prompted the foundation of the Peterlee Skatepark Action Group, which campaigned for a permanent boarding site in the town.

But despite its lobbying, the organisation failed to find a suitable venue.

The lack of an available site prompted the group to try to secure a mobile unit.

Under the chairmanship of PC Mick Hayton, of Easington District's anti-social behaviour unit, members of the action group secured the funding needed and began to search for equipment.

PC Hayton said: "We eventually found what we believe is the best state-of-the-art equipment from a Canadian firm, which is supplied by a company in High Wycombe."

Due to arrive shortly, the park includes nine ramps and safety equipment in a trailer.

The park can be assembled in indoor sports halls, car parks or playgrounds. It will initially be located at Seaham Leisure Centre, where the biggest demand for the facility has been established.

The park is free for community groups, and insurance is provided by Easington District Council, which has helped to secure some of the funding.

Money for the park also came from the action group and the Community Safety Partnership. The action group is also providing a shield for the winners of competitions to be held in the area.

PC Hayton and the action group's members are still hoping a permanent park can be located in east Durham.