Hundreds of skate boarders attended

The largest council-run indoor skateboard park in the UK has opened in an attempt to rejuvenate an area with drug problems.

Hanger81 has been set up in Aberbargoed in the Rhymney Valley - an area which suffers from high levels of social deprivation and drug abuse.

Caerphilly Council, who are responsible for the site, have said that the skate park has been set up especially to "get young people off the streets".

"We are keen to encourage more local youngsters to take part in sport which will help them lead healthier lifestyles and provide an attractive alternative to hanging around the streets during their spare time," said a spokesman.

Tommy O'Rourke, who works for Drug Aid which provides help and support said that the skate park could be beneficial.

"The area is one of the most socially deprived in Europe and I think that as long as the skateboarding facility is used properly it will be a good thing," he said.

"There is quite a large misuse of drug and alcohol in this area," he said.

"There doesn't appear to be enough services and funding there.

Adam Thomas welcomed the initiative

"There is very little for people to do and there is not enough for the people to get involved with especially for young people.

The 500-square metre park was developed with a �37,150 grant from the Sports Council for Wales at Aberbargoed's former leisure centre.

The scheme has been welcomed by the young people using the facility and groups which work to combat the problem of drug abuse.

Friends Mark Worgan, 13, and Luke Morris, 12, travelled from Bargoed to go skateboarding.

"We used to make our own ramps but they have got good ramps here,'' said Mark.

Cameron Barron and Luke Jones both aged nine, were pleased with the facility.

"We had to go all the way to Merthyr before this place opened," said Cameron.

"I will be coming here a lot," added Luke.

"There is a skateboard park in Porth but that is miles away," said Adam Thomas, 14, from nearby Hollybush.

"It's been really busy here since it opened especially on the weekend."

Myrddyn Wood, manager of the centre said ramps and grind rails had attracted more than 400 skateboarders, roller bladers and BMX bikers.

"So far we have relied on word of mouth," said Mr Wood.

"We are very pleased with the numbers so far," he added.