The “Bikes, Boards and Brushes” project in Chilton brought professional skate coaching to local youth at the Charlie Wayman football ground skatepark, writes Sue Reece. Delivered by expert coaches from Shred the North, alongside grant backing from the Banks Community Fund and the Miners’ Welfare Recreation Ground Trust, the workshops gave participants fun new skills and fresh pride in their local area.
The initiative was created to give Chilton’s youth exciting recreational outlets. By focusing on structured sports like biking and skateboarding, the project helps prevent young people from becoming disengaged due to the lack of available local activities. Expert coaches from Shred the North stepped in to lead the hands-on skateboard workshops. They worked with local participants of varying ages and skill levels, teaching everything from basic balance and pushing to advanced ramp tricks.
The project combines active sports with creative art through
- Active Coaching: Expert riders from Shred the North teaching safe techniques and new tricks.
- Creative Expression: Kids helping design and paint vibrant art on site.
- Community Connection: Building a shared, positive space for local families and riders.
Earlier in the year local young people teamed up with professional street artist, Lewis Hobson, from Durham Spray Paints to design and spray-paint the Chilton skatepark obstacles and walls, turning the local park into a vibrant, well-loved hub for Chilton’s young residents. The skateboard workshop built on this and proved to be an instant hit with local children. Participants shared that they had a brilliant time, with many immediately asking when the next session would take place. The excitement was so high that one enthusiastic young rider even asked if they could come back and do it all over again the very next day.
Following the response, the project is introducing craft-based workshops over the summer to give young residents even more ways to express themselves and learn new skills. This blends sports with creative, hands-on activities to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy during the school break.
To keep the momentum going and answer the demand from participants, the Miners’ Welfare Ground Charity Trust is actively looking to schedule further sessions for scooters, skateboards, and bikes. The project aims to build a long-term schedule of activities that supports ongoing youth development through regular, organised outdoor activities. Look out for further details on activities and events on www.chiltonmwrg.org.uk and Chilton Town Council website.
Sue Reece
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
