On Saturday 9 May, Frome Skatepark Project hosted a ‘skate jam’ in the Mary Baily playing field, as part of their fundraising efforts towards a new skatepark, planned for 2027. The event was co-hosted with project partners Rotary Club of Frome and Frome Town Council and saw four hours of scooting and skating competitions and a visit from European Scooter Champion Isaac Jose. A barbecue, raffle and low-cost skate lessons all contributed to the day’s £1,702 fundraising total.
Cllr Polly Lamb said “There’s always such a fantastic atmosphere at the skate jam – events like this show how important the skatepark is to our young people, how very well used it is and how much we need one that is fit for purpose – please help by donating to the crowdfunder or looking out for forthcoming fundraising events.
“Skating and scooting bring people together, get people active and encourage them to learn new skills, to negotiate and to look out for one another. Huge thanks to the Frome Skatepark Project Team, Dave Lea the skating coach, to Chris Lilley and Rotary Club of Frome and everyone who came along to the skate jam, skated, scooted, or just bought a burger and a cuppa and enjoyed the day.”
Frome Skatepark Project’s Tristan Scholefield said “What a brilliant day! So many people turned out to support the event and our new skatepark – we’re keeping the momentum going with lots more events so watch out for more ways you can help us hit our target.”
As part of the project, Frome Town Council has been working with Dr Esther Sayers of Goldsmiths, University of London, a researcher into equity and inclusion in arts, culture and sport. Following the success of a recent girls-only skate lesson, there’s a further opportunity for girls aged 10 to 18 to try skateboards, longboards and surfskates on 31 May and 7 June with instructor Danielle Davis of Soulful Skate Co. Sessions are beginner friendly, with options for more experienced skaters, and free, although donations to the skatepark fundraiser are welcome.
Book for the free skate sessions at tinyurl.com/soulful-skate-sessions. Donate to the skatepark project crowdfunder at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/frome-skatepark.
