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City launches first BMX and skate festival

News imageSunderland BID A stunt rider jumping his bike in the air while a crowd watches the show.Sunderland BID
Stunt shows from BMX riders and skateboarders will take place at Urban Fest

A free festival focusing on street culture is planned for next month.

Urban Fest in Sunderland will celebrate sports including BMXing and skateboarding, as well as featuring art and music.

Professional skateboarders Alex Halford and Owen "Sox" Watkins will perform demos at the festival, while BMXer 3Sixty will be showing off a number of stunts.

The event is being organised by the Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID) which said the event would "shine a spotlight on street culture".

A ramp will also be constructed for shows by BMXer Jack Clark.

News imageSunderland BID A BMXer performing a no hander in the air off a quarter pipe at an event. A crowd of people watch while announcers with microphones stand on top of the quarter pipe.Sunderland BID
Those wishing to learn how to BMX and skate will be able to take part in workshops

Sharon Appleby, CEO of the BID, said: "There will be plenty to take part in, learn and enjoy."

Workshops will be led by the team from skate park company King Ramps and 3Sixty.

Dancers from across the region can also sign up to take part in a dance battle.

Other events will include street art, food stalls and hair braiding.

The festival is part of the BID's Sunniside Activation programme and has been funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Urban Fest will take place on 7 and 8 September at Sunniside Gardens.

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