Skateboarding hero Tony Hawk has boosted interest in the sport

Rhayader 2000 is focusing on providing improved skateboard facilities for the town's youth.

It is also pushing ahead with plans to try to attract more visitors to the area.

The group was set up in 1996 to curb the slump in Rhayader's economy.

It is currently a key player in RYAT - Rhayader Youth Action Team - which aims to set up a skateboard facility and games area in the town.

Economic regeneration starts and ends with the kids of this town Rachael Beech, chair of Rhayader 2000

"Economic regeneration starts and ends with the kids of this town," said Rachael Beech, Rhayader 2000's chairperson.

"It is essential we give youngsters an outlet for their enthusiasm - if we can't keep them in the town then we will lose them forever."

Several local sites have been identified and Rhayader 2000 is currently waiting for a response from the landowners.

The organisation is also supporting local businesses to try and make the best of what Rhayder can offer tourists.

It has organised local tourism providers to attend master classes in cookery courses, and is planning a visit of local businesses to local attractions.

A skate park for local youths is a priority for Wendy Abel

"These businesses can then relay information about local attractions to visitors who will be more likely to visit these places of interest," said Rhayader 2000's development officer, Wendy Abel.

Another project is the promotion of Rhayader and the Elan Valley as a cycling attraction.

"This area was nominated by Powys County Council as a prime location for recreational cycling," she said.

"We will produce a route pack for cyclists later this spring," she added.

Rhayader 2000 is also looking to set up a community photo library to market and promote mid Wales.

"We are trying to promote a sense of place to tourists so their stay is a special one and will make them want to come back to mid Wales," she said.